GREENSBORO, N.C. (May 10, 2024) – As part of its 63rd season (June 22-July 27, 2024), the Eastern Music Festival proudly presents a FREE performance by the United States Air Force Heritage Winds Quintet on July 10th. Comprising four esteemed EMF alumni who now serve in the United States Air Force, this concert marks a poignant full-circle moment, celebrating music’s transformative power and EMF’s enduring legacy.

The quintet’s bassoonist, A1C Debra Loh, fondly recalls her time at EMF in 2015, reminiscing about an unexpected bond formed over a conversation about pets. “It’s incredible how connections made at EMF have endured over the years,” she shares. A1C Cooper Johnson, horn player and EMF class of 2017, echoes her sentiment, stating, “EMF not only shaped my musicality but also fostered lifelong friendships. Returning to perform feels like a homecoming filled with cherished memories.”

In addition to Debra and Cooper, the quintet comprises other EMF Alumni such as MSgt. Kelly Longmire, oboe (2004), SSgt. Hilary Zirkle, clarinet (2012), as well as and A1C Yuna Langehenng, flute, completing the ensemble.

The performance will feature a diverse repertoire including works by the prolific composer Samuel Barber, as well as living female composers, Alyssa Morris (b.1984), Valerie Coleman (b.1970), Grace Ann Lee (b.1996), and Amanda Harberg (b.1973).