![](https://d1y822qhq55g6.cloudfront.net/layout/_thumbSmall/304266/John-with-record-boxes.jpg)
The White House Recording Library: The Forgotten Collection
Featuring John Chuldenko, writer, director, and grandson of President Jimmy Carter
Main Content
President Gerald Ford watches Pearl Bailey as she joins the Marine Chamber Orchestra for an impromptu performance after a State Dinner for the Shah and Empress of Iran, May 15, 1975.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum/NARA"The President's Own" provided after-dinner music for the visit of the Prince and Princess of Wales, November 9, 1985. First Lady Nancy Reagan encouraged actor John Travolta to dance with Princess Diana to music from his hit movie Saturday Night Fever.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum/NARAPresident Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford listen to an impromptu trumpet performance by legendary bandleader Harry James, backed up by a Marine dance band, after the State Dinner for President and Mrs. Walter Scheel of the Federal Republic of Germany, June 16, 1975.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum/NARAAbout this Gallery
Many of the world's finest performing artists have shared the White House stage with the Marine Band. Great tenors and divas, maestros and virtuosos, Broadway stars and jazz greats have all become part of the social history of the White House.