A member of the U.S. Air Force Academy Band, the Falconaires.

More than 500 campus and community members attended Friday’s “Sharing the Freedom: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope,” hosted by Metro State and the United States Air Force Academy Band’s Falconaires.

The concert, held on Ninth St. Park, featured an almost two-hour performance by the Falconaires, the USAF Academy Band’s premier jazz band, with a guest appearance by composer and conductor Chie Imaizumi. Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper welcomed the crowd, as did Metro State President Stephen Jordan. Mayor Hickenlooper also surprised President Jordan with the 2008 Golda Meir Award.

Conductor/composer Chie Imaizumi with U.S. Air Force Academy Band, the Falconaires.

History Professor and noted jazz expert Norman Provizer, who was the impetus behind the free concert, served as emcee. Metro State students distributed free pocket U.S. Constitutions.

Jeppeson, a long-time supporter of Metro State with more than 150 alumni working for the company, was the lead sponsor. The Japan Foundation and Domo restaurant were co-sponsors.