From the US Navy Outreach Department
The U.S. Navy Band Commodores Jazz Ensemble performed a public concert at National Harbor on May 10th, bringing their signature blend of big band jazz to an appreciative crowd in Oxon Hill, Maryland.
Among the musicians was Musician First Class Justin Mendez. Raised in Clermont, Mendez has quickly made a name for himself as one of the newest up-and-coming players to watch out for. A first-call saxophonist in Washington D.C, where he currently resides, Mendez is the lead tenor player for the US Navy Band Commodores.
The Commodores were established in 1969 and serve as the Navy’s official jazz band. Based at the Washington Navy Yard, the 18-member group includes some of the Navy’s finest jazz and big band musicians. They perform a wide range of styles—from traditional swing to modern jazz—and frequently feature original compositions and arrangements.
The ensemble performs regularly in the National Capital Region and also tours nationally. Their mission is to represent the U.S. Navy through musical outreach and public engagement, strengthening the connection between the Navy and communities across the country.
The National Harbor concert was part of this ongoing outreach, offering a family-friendly, open-air performance along the Potomac waterfront. Concertgoers were treated to a lively program showcasing the Commodores’ technical skill, musical range, and deep-rooted jazz tradition.
For more information about the Navy Band Commodores, including upcoming performances, visit www.navyband.navy.mil.
