The U.S. Army Field Band

Biography

Originally from Long Island, New York, Sergeant Major John Altman joined The U.S. Army Field Band in 1999. After completing his Bachelor of Arts degree at Centre College of Kentucky, Sgt. Maj. Altman performed professionally in the Miami and Chicago areas before completing his Master of Music degree in Jazz Pedagogy and Performance at Northern Illinois University. Since joining the Army Field Band, he has performed in the Jazz Ambassadors (2012-present) and Concert Band trumpet sections (1999-2012), The Embassy Brass Quintet, Chamber Brass, and the Federal Brass. As a lead trumpet player, Sgt. Maj. Altman has performed and recorded with such artists as Ernie Watts, Slide Hampton, John Fedchock, Harold Jones, Al Martino, Marcus Roberts, Claudio Roditi, and Cecil Bridgewater. Sgt. Maj. Altman is the Road Manager for the Jazz Ambassadors and is an official unit photographer for The U.S. Army Field Band.

Member of the Jazz Ambassadors

Official Photo of The U.S. Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors

The Jazz Ambassadors, the U.S. Army’s premier big band, was formed in 1969 and is celebrated both nationally and internationally for performing America’s original art form—jazz. Known as “America’s Big Band,” this 19-member ensemble showcases versatile programming, including classic big band standards, solos, patriotic tunes, contemporary jazz, and original compositions by its members. Many of these works are available through their jazz education initiative, Perspectives.

The Jazz Ambassadors have performed across all 50 states and in Canada, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and India, joining prestigious orchestras like the Boston Pops and National Symphony and appearing at major jazz festivals in Montreux, Newport, and Toronto. Their performances reflect a rich legacy, met with acclaim for celebrating jazz’s unique spirit worldwide.

About the Jazz Ambassadors