More thoughts on Independence Day music:
- For a subtler yet no less effective version of the "Washington Post March," listen to the way Chet Atkins handles it. He conjures up the feel of a larger ensemble with just an acoustic guitar.
- One highlight heard on KWMU-3 this morning: the Joseph Jenkins piece, "American Overture For Band," performed by River City Brass Band from Pittsburgh. It's a medley of patriotic motifs fit for a film score.
- John Philip Sousa's "The Stars And Stripes Forever" brings out the patriot--or the performer, at least--in a lot of us. I remember the energy an ensemble in which I played during eighth and ninth grade brought to it. When we played it during my first year with the orchestra, the conductor asked the brass and wind players to stand up while playing the final verse in concert. The following year, at a rehearsal, we played "...Stars And Stripes..." for the first time since that concert. Even though it was a rehearsal, one brass player stood up reflexively when we launched into the last verse. Looking back, I'm surprised more players didn't follow suit automatically; the piece has that kind of power. During the annual Boston Pops July 4 concerts, the audience erupts in cheers when the American flag is unfurled during the last verse. One year, I remember a group of girls in the audience forming an impromptu dance troupe and singing along with the last verse.
- Speaking of the Boston Pops, is there a more enjoyable, enduring orchestral tradition than the ensemble's annual July 4 concert? Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops get the audience on its feet with a patriotic sing-along, perform several traditional Independence Day favorites, and accompany special guests, such as Arlo Guthrie, Jennifer Hudson, and Susan Tedeschi. The fireworks display caps off the evening in fine form; although there's no substitute for seeing fireworks in person, the show in Boston is one of the best televised displays.
