Spangdahlem singing group searching for vocalists Published May 26, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Tammie Moore 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The Singing Sabers, a group of base vocalists who perform the American and German National Anthems, are seeking musically gifted people to join their ranks. "We are currently looking for new faces for the group," said Holly Diaz, 52nd Communications Squadron commander's secretary. "Prior music experience is welcomed; however, if you are a beginner with the desire to learn, you are encouraged to come out and participate." Due to a number of permanent change of station moves the group is in need of new active-duty and civilian members. In addition to singers, the group is also looking for a pianist. There is no limit to the number of Singing Sabers -- the more the better, Mrs. Diaz said. "We have varying schedules and having a large group helps cover those instances when someone is not available to sing." Singing Sabers practices are based on the performance schedule; however, they are planning to begin weekly rehearsals. "Members are expected to attend scheduled rehearsals and exhibit professionalism at all events, as we are representing the 52nd Fighter Wing," Mrs. Diaz said. The Singing Sabers are available to perform at professional military events. If the group can't perform at a requested event it has a professional recording of the American and German National Anthems that can be checked out from the base protocol office. Master Sgt. Darrell White, 52nd Fighter Wing chief of readiness and plans, owns a recording studio "The Spot" just outside of Wittlich. He donated the use of studio time and equipment to the Singing Sabers to make this professional recording. "I first heard about the Signing Sabers during a recording session with Mrs. Diaz," Sergeant White said. "She told me about her idea of getting them recording and asked if the studio could accommodate a choir. I said of course. (It felt) great to do something that not many people are in a position to do for the wing." The recording session took about three hours. "It was an exciting experience for all of us," Mrs. Diaz said. "Being in the studio lets you see and hear how music, voice and technology come together to produce an amazing product." Mrs. Diaz said being a Singing Saber is a great experience, despite the hard work of learning pronunciations for the German and Luxembourg national anthems. "The most rewarding part of this is being able to share our talent and music with the Eifel community and being a positive role model in service of our country," Mrs. Diaz said. "We have the honor of representing our 52nd FW in the many special events throughout the year. We have the responsibility to set the tone and atmosphere of an event from its beginning." For more information about checking out the Singing Sabers National Anthem recording for an official event, contact the protocol office at 452-6057. For more information about the Singing Sabers, e-mail jeannette.diaz@spangdahlem.af.mil or dion.cawthon@spangdahlem.af.mil.