From our conductor, Stephen W. Pratt:

This concert features music that celebrates American music in many ways.
The Symphonic Concert March is by an Italian composer, but was rescued from obscurity by Nicholas Falcone, one of two Italian brothers who came to America as teenagers and made a huge impact on the American concert band world in many ways. The Alfred Reed Ballade features our guest soloist, Dr. Thomas Walsh, from the Jacobs School of Music faculty, an outstanding saxophonist. Florence Price’s Adoration, a transcription of her organ piece, is a beautiful addition to our repertoire. David Dzubay, from the Jacobs School of Music faculty is represented with his Gloriana, Frangipana, a piece he composed for my retirement concert. Three iconic American composers are also represented – Bernstein, Copland, and Gershwin. My hope is that every member of the audience will find at least several pieces that they want to hear and will enjoy