“It is truly an honor and a dream come true to have been selected to join the U.S. Navy Band,” states John. “Becoming a professional musician in an ensemble of this caliber has been a longtime goal of mine, and the pedagogy and education I’ve received at Frost have been instrumental in making this goal a reality. I cannot wait to represent the Frost School of Music as an alumnus in such a prestigious performing ensemble.”
In commenting on his student, Aaron Tindall, Associate Professor of Tuba and Euphonium, stated: “John Mangonon has been a model student during his time here at the Frost School of Music. He has been a sponge since his arrival on day one, working to become the best fundamentally and musically sound tubist he can be. The members in our studio and across the MIP look up to him as a leader. His impeccable work ethic and the drive to be able to hear his playing on a different scale and level are what makes him stand out amongst players, and no doubt had a hand in his audition success. He will soon have a long-lasting career in one of the top DC Military Bands while making the Frost School of Music proud for years to come as an alumnus. We are very proud of him! “
Since its inception in 1925, the Navy Band has been entertaining audiences and supporting the Navy with some of the best musicians in the country. From national concert tours to presidential inaugurals to memorial services at Arlington National Cemetery, the Navy Band proudly represents the men and women of the largest, most versatile, most capable naval force on the planet today: America's Navy. One hundred seventy enlisted musicians, recruited from the finest music schools and professional musical organizations, perform over 270 public concerts and 1,300 ceremonies each year. In addition to their demanding performance and rehearsal schedules, band members are responsible for the daily administration of the organization, including operations, public affairs, a large music library, information systems, and supply. As the Navy's musical ambassadors, band members maintain the highest standards of appearance, military bearing, and physical fitness.
The United States Navy Band, nationally and internationally, stands for musical and military excellence. Whether performing at Carnegie Hall, the White House, or a rural civic auditorium; sharing the stage with Ernest Borgnine, Itzhak Perlman, Branford Marsalis, or Vince Gill; or appearing on television programs like "Today," "Meet the Press" and "Good Morning America" and in films like "Clear and Present Danger," the United States Navy Band is constantly reaffirming why they are "The World's Finest."
