T

he Naval Aviation Museum of Pensacola hosted 
the 26th annual performance of the Glenn Miller 
Orchestra, on February 2. The world-famous 
orchestra is a fully self-contained 19-member group 

today, carrying on the music and feeling of the original Glenn 
Miller Orchestra formed in 1938. The Orchestra demonstrated 
a salute to all World War II Veterans and filled the room with 
the sounds of classic Big-Band favorites, such as “In the Mood”, 
“Moonlight Serenade”, “Little Brown Jug”, and “Chattanooga 
Choo-Choo”. Guests were taking to the dance floor, including 
U.S. Navy World War II Veteran John Stoll, Sr., and daughter 

Jane Birdwell. The pair said this concert is their favorite outing 
and event of the year because it gives them an opportunity to 
create more fantastic memories.

Nick Hilscher is the current director, who joined the orchestra 

in 1998 and became the featured male vocalist. His first 
performance as music director was January 12, 2012.

The Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum is one of the most 

visited museums in Florida, and is also is the world’s largest of 
its kind. The combination of surrounding aircraft from World 
War II and the music reminiscent of the era made this event a 
night for the history books.

photos & story by

 

Kristina Wright

   VIP Pensacola at the Naval Aviation Museum 

March 2018   |   13

Kevin & Vickey Adams 

Sterling Gilliam & Kim Chope 

John Stoll, Sr. & Jane Birdwell

Jeff & Jennifer Champion

Steven & Marley Gardner

Justin & Riannon Boven

13-15 Event Glenn Miller Orchestra.indd   1

2/25/18   11:01 AM