Celebrate the Fourth of July with Classical Music

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a special playlist of patriotic classical music. From the stirring “1812 Overture” to Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man,” these pieces will inspire pride in all who listen.

Introduction

Classical music and the Fourth of July have been linked together for centuries. In fact, many of America’s most beloved classical pieces were inspired by the country’s independence and history. If you’re looking for a patriotic way to celebrate the Fourth of July this year, why not blast some classical tunes? Here are five pieces of classical music that are perfect for Independence Day:

1. “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key – This one is a no-brainer. “The Star-Spangled Banner” is America’s national anthem, and it has been since 1931. The lyrics to this song were actually written by Francis Scott Key in 1814. He was inspired to write them after witnessing the American flag still flying over Fort McHenry after a fierce battle with the British during the War of 1812.

2. “The United States Air Force Anthem” by Robert Crawford – This piece was written in 1947 and is now the official song of the United States Air Force. It is full of patriotism and pride, making it a perfect choice for Fourth of July celebrations.

3. “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin – This iconic piece was written in 1924 and is one of America’s most popular classical compositions. It perfectly captures the energy and vibrancy of New York City, making it an ideal choice for celebrating America’s independence.

4. “Fanfare for the Common Man” by Aaron Copland – This piece was written in 1942 during World War II as a way to boost morale among American troops. It is full of hope and optimism, making it an excellent choice for celebrating America’s independence.

5. “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Phillip Sousa – Last but not least, we have “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” This famous march was written in 1896 by John Phillip Sousa, who is known as the “March King.” It has been used in countless Fourth of July celebrations over the years, and it remains one of America’s most patriotic pieces of classical music.

The United States Marine Band

The United States Marine Band is America’s oldest and largest professional musical organization. Founded in 1798 by an act of Congress, the Marine Band has performed for every U.S. President since John Adams.

The band’s primary mission is to provide music for the president of the United States and the commander in chief. The Marine Band also performs at public concerts and events nationwide, including at the National Independence Day Parade in Washington, D.C., an annual tradition that dates back to 1801.

This year, the Marine Band will be joined by the Washington Symphonic Brass for a special concert on the National Mall on July 4th. The event is free and open to the public.

The Boston Pops Orchestra

The Boston Pops Orchestra is a world-renowned orchestra that is based in Boston, Massachusetts. The orchestra was founded in 1885 and has been performing annually on the Fourth of July since 1930. The Boston Pops is one of the most popular classical music ensembles in the world and has performed with some of the most famous classical musicians, including Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, and André Previn.

The New York Philharmonic

The New York Philharmonic will be performing a free concert at the Central Park SummerStage on July 4th, 2018. The concert will feature patriotic classics and will be conducted by former Music Director Alan Gilbert.

The Philadelphia Orchestra

Formed in 1900, The Philadelphia Orchestra is one of the “Big Five” American orchestras, and is widely considered one of the best orchestras in the world. Led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin since 2012, The Philadelphia Orchestra has its home at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, and performs over 120 concerts each year. The Orchestra has a long tradition of patriotic programming around the Fourth of July holiday – this year’s offerings include two concerts at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center on July 3 and 4, featuring an all-American program of Bernstein, Copland, Gershwin, and more.

The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra

One of the great traditions of the Fourth of July is spending time outdoors with family and friends, enjoying a barbecue and listening to patriotic music. If you’re looking for something a little different this year, why not try classical music? The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra has a great selection of patriotic pieces that are perfect for the Fourth of July. Check out their website for more information.

The Los Angeles Philharmonic

One of America’s leading orchestras, the Los Angeles Philharmonic has been a special part of the city’s cultural life for more than a century. Founded in 1919 by William Andrew Clark, Jr., the orchestra has been under the leadership of nine music directors, most recently Gustavo Dudamel.

The Los Angeles Philharmonic performs throughout the year at two historic venues: Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 2003, and Hollywood Bowl, summer home of the orchestra since 1922. The orchestra also presents a wide range of free concerts and educational programs throughout Southern California.

The San Francisco Symphony

This year, the San Francisco Symphony is hosting a special Fourth of July concert featuring some of America’s most beloved classical pieces. The concert will include works by Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, and George Gershwin, among others.

Tickets for the event are available now and can be purchased online or by calling the box office. This is sure to be a popular event, so be sure to get your tickets early!