Sounds of the Season - A Holiday Celebration in Slovakia Published Dec. 2, 2024 By USAFE Band RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany — The United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) Band, in partnership with the U.S. Embassy Bratislava, will spread holiday cheer in Slovakia with two concerts as part of its 2024 Holiday Tour. The performances will take place on December 3 in Banská Bystrica and on December 4 in Bratislava, offering a unique musical celebration of the season. Under the baton of Capt. Brian M. O’Donnell, the band will perform “The Sounds of the Season,” a festive program featuring holiday classics, timeless melodies, and virtuosic solo performances. The concert includes pieces such as “Good King Wenceslas,” “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” and “Someday at Christmas,” as well as the Hanukah piece “Dreidel Dance.” Through music, the program highlights the themes of gratitude, partnership, and unity. Music as a Bridge This year’s Holiday Tour underscores the enduring friendship between the United States and Slovakia. “Music has a unique ability to transcend borders, connect people, and celebrate our shared values,” said O’Donnell. “Through this tour, we hope to bring joy to our Slovak friends and strengthen the bonds that unite our nations.” A Season of Reflection The performance will also include a moment of reflection, honoring those enduring hardships and conflict during this season. The USAFE Band will dedicate a special selection to the people of Ukraine, recognizing their resilience and the unity of Allies and partners in supporting democracy and peace. Strengthening Partnerships Through Culture The U.S. Embassy Bratislava is proud to sponsor this cultural exchange, showcasing the power of music to strengthen relationships and foster goodwill. "Hosting the United States Air Forces Europe Band in Slovakia is a celebration of harmony in every sense—musically and diplomatically," said Ambassador Gautam Rana. "As we mark 20 years of steadfast partnership through NATO, this performance symbolizes the shared commitment and close ties that unite the United States and Slovakia in peace and security." Concert Schedule: • Banská Bystrica: Aula SZU, Bernolákova, Dec. 3, 2024, 1900 • Bratislava: Moyzes Hall, Dec. 4, 2024, 1800 The USAFE Band, stationed at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, represents the U.S. Air Force across Europe and Africa, building partnerships and fostering mutual understanding through the universal language of music. Social Media Handles: • Facebook: @usafeband | @USEmbassyBratislava • Instagram: @usafe_band | @USEmbassyBratislava For more information, please contact the U.S. Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa Public Affairs Office at usafepao.pao@us.af.mil or, after hours, at usafepa.pastaffdutyofficer@us.af.mil.