Performing Units

THE COMMANDANT'S COMBO
The United States Naval Academy Band

The Commandant's Combo has become one of the most requested groups the USNA Band offers. Originally created to support the Commandant of Midshipmen’s official events, this versatile group is often called upon to perform for traditional Navy functions including Navy and Marine Corps Balls, Dining-ins, as well as command social functions and public concerts. The five-piece ensemble infuses elements of traditional jazz, New Orleans, reggae, and Brazilian music into their own arrangements of time-honored jazz classics as well as popular music inspired by Motown, the Beatles, Stevie Wonder, and even Pearl Jam. The group consists of Chief Musician Nick Pastelak, vocals and drums; Chief Musician Blake Cramer, piano and vibes; Musician First Class Tom Pitta, string and electric bass; Musician First Class Colin Renick, sax; and Musician First Class Matt Shea, trumpet. Audiences find the Commandant's Combo's eclectic repertoire and unique musical perspective thoroughly entertaining.

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