The Thurmont Park Commission and the Commissioners of Thurmont are pleased to announce that The United States Air Force Heritage Aire Celtic Ensemble will perform in Thurmont on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. at Catoctin High School.

This is the first visit to Thurmont for this ensemble which is part of the USAF Heritage of America Band of Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, which has performed locally numerous times with great popularity. According to Thurmont’s concert coordinator, George Wireman, this ensemble is very popular and Thurmont is very fortunate to be part of their touring schedule this summer.

Under the direction of MSgt David Boone, Heritage Aire blends a contemporary musical approach with traditional Celtic music style to create a stunning musical tapestry. The members of Heritage Aire perform on traditional instruments such as the Irish flute, tin whistles, Scottish small pipes, and bodhran. They also employ modern instruments like the acoustic guitar and oboe to achieve their unique sound.

Heritage Aire celebrates America’s great cultural diversity by performing concerts in communities and schools throughout a six state region. The ensemble also provides entertainment and musical support for military protocol events.

Although this concert is free of charge, admission is by ticket only. Tickets are available at the Thurmont town office, the Thurmont Branch Library and the Thurmont office of Bank of America. Or, if you prefer, tickets may be ordered by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to George Wireman, Concert Coordinator, 128 E. Hammaker Street, Thurmont, MD 21788. There is a limit of 5 tickets per request. Seating on concert night is first-come, first-served. Doors open at 6:00 for ticket holders.

"The USAF enjoys coming to Thurmont and the Commissioners and the park commission are pleased to have them as part of our annual concert series," said Mr. Wireman.