“Forward March for Freedom”

A Musical Salute to African American Military Heritage

The 369th Experience: Continuing the Legacy is an historic series of global music programs designed to acknowledge, educate, and preserve the legacy of The 369th U.S. Infantry regiment band and soldiers.

The 369th Experience re-creates the original band with African American and Puerto Rican music students from HBCUs and other universities across the country.

Continuing the Legacy and Forward March for Freedom will bring 65 HBCU students to the DC area on June 13-20, 2022 to participate in celebrity-conducted master classes, a panel discussion, and time travel concert performances at the John F. Kennedy Center in observance of Black Music Month and Juneteenth.

A Musical Salute to African American Military Heritage

The goal is to continue to honor the original band members, educate new audiences and students about the band’s importance, and foster a dialogue that acknowledges and respects their contributions to the US military and music around the world.

As the foundation of the time travel concert, our band and celebrity musicians have selected songs throughout history to share and discuss the music that demonstrates the influence of the syncopation and style James Reese Europe created decades ago, demonstrating how his influence is still relevant in music today.

For all Millennium Stage performances, a limited number of advance reservations are available on a first come, first served basis. Advance reservations do not guarantee a seat, and patrons are encouraged to arrive early.

Online advance reservations for a given performance date will open on a rolling basis, opening every Wednesday two weeks out from the date.

For live Millennium Stage performances free tickets will also be available at the Hall of States Box Office on the day of the performance, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Seating is first come, first served. Standing room is available behind the seated area as space allows.