The sounds of the 1920s speakeasies will be live and swinging this week! A Marine brass quintet will perform as part of the National Museum of American History’s Star-Spangled American Music Series, “illuminating America’s musical heritage, through its composers, songwriters, iconic performers, and musical trends.” The quintet will perform free 20-minute concerts on Thursday, July 24, in the museum’s Warner Brothers Theater at 12:30, 1:30, and 2:30 p.m.

Coordinated by group leader trumpet/cornetist Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Orban, the concerts will include songs by American composers from the early 20th century, a lost generation of musicians who gave our country early jazz, and tunes suitable for dances such as the Charleston, Peabody, and Lindy Hop. The program features standards such as Bix Beiderbecke’s “Davenport Blues,” Vincent Youmans’ “Hallelujah,” Douglas Furber and Philip Braham’s “Limehouse Blues,” and Boyd Atkins’ “Heebie Jeebies,” which was recorded by Louis Armstrong.

“The music on our concerts will be a great connection with the museum’s series,” Orban said. “We’ll offer a taste of New Orleans-style music and works from the Tin Pan Alley composers and really just share a review of some of our nation’s earliest jazz.”

Members of the quintet include trumpet/cornetists Gunnery Sgt. Orban and Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Strong, French horn player Staff Sgt. Cecilia Kozlowski, trombonist Gunnery Sgt. Timothy Dugan, and tuba player Staff Sgt. Simon Wildman.

The concerts are free; no tickets are required. The National Museum of American History is located at 14th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. For more information visit http://americanhistory.si.edu.