Updated at 17:53,27-03-2024

United States Air Force Band performs in Brest

Mikhas Ilyin, Euroradio

The musicians gave a concert near Brest Fortress on May 7.

U.S. Navy orchestra joined the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Victory in Belarus. It will take part in Minsk parade on May 9. Micheal Mench’s musicians have already given a concert in Brest.

"This day is special for us (May 9 – Euroradio) because we were allies in that war. It is an honour for us to mark this day in Brest Fortress. We know about Brest Fortress from history books and it is important that we celebrate the Victory Day with together with you,” conductor Lieutenant Colonel R. Michael Mench said.

The orchestra performed the anthems of the USA and Belarus. The main programme consisted of jazz and variety. Several hundred people came to listen to the overseas guests despite the rain. The rain did not spoil the mood of the audience – they welcomed the musicians warmly.

The idea to invite the band to Belarus belongs to the U.S. chargé d'affaires Scott Roland, head of Brest City Executive Committee Alyaksandr Rahachuk said:

"We met the chargé d'affaires pro tempore in January and discussed this project. It seemed fabulous but we did it. Our country is peaceful. We want to make friends with everyone. Maybe we are creating a new wonderful tradition now.”

Alyaksandr Rahachuk and Scott Roland are considering the possibility of inviting the United States Air Force Band to Belarus next year.