Air Force Entertainment Searches for band members Published Nov. 20, 2008 By Headquarters Air Force Services Agency RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Everybody loves a great drum solo, but many musicians enjoy the sound that can only come from a well-rehearsed group. At the same time, many musicians are reluctant to compete as a soloist when their true skill is most notable when they are "in the groove" with other musicians. Understanding this aspect of a musicians psyche was critical in the decision to create a new category for the 2009 Air Force Talent Search. The band category will comprise of individuals that have submitted their application for the 2009 Worldwide Talent Search but feel their performance is better showcased by performing with others. "This process of putting instrumentalists together to perform in one act is new this year. In the 70s and 80s we had a judging category for bands, but these bands usually came as a group from individual bases or the major commands," says Jeri White, production manager for Air Force Entertainment. "We want to see more musicians this year," says Ms. White. "By reviving the popular band category and accommodating musicians that prefer to play with other musicians rather than as a soloist, we are anticipating a larger number of musician applicants." Musicians of all types are encouraged to apply now by going online to www.topsinblue.com. The application and audition video deadline is Dec. 2. Each application will be individually evaluated and the top talent will be selected to compete at the higher level competition. Those selected competitors will be offered the choice to compete either as a soloist or with other musicians at the Worldwide Talent Search competition. The current 2009 talent call, Mission Audition provides active duty, Guard and Reserve members the opportunity to compete for the prestigious first and second place trophies, fondly called "Roger and Wilco" during the Air Force Worldwide Talent Search competition, Jan. 11 to 19 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. For more information on how to apply, visit www.topsinblue.com or call DSN 487-6566 or (210) 652-6566.