Departures was inspired by the men and women in the US Air Force, who voluntarily “depart” from their families and friends to locations across the globe, often in harm’s way, to protect the freedoms we cherish each and every day. This recording also demonstrates the heritage and ingenuity of our Airmen through music. Indeed, the title track of this recording was composed by the Band’s own SMSGT Robert Thurston. Additionally, this album features the innovations of contemporary composers such as Steven Bryant, Wayne Oquin, Arturo Márquez, Kathryn Salfelder, Julie Giroux and Ron Nelson, who take musical departures to explore new sounds and ideas. Departures celebrates those pivotal moments in our history, both in music and in the Air Force, when a “departure” from the expected path made all the difference. This innovative spirit is a hallmark of the US Air Force, and is the foundation upon which America was built.
