Afternoon of Brass : BOSTON : Memorial Weekend Spectacular

We’re excited to present a patriotic-themed concert series featuring members of the Boston Symphony and Pops Brass!  Concert goers can expect a spectacular and rousing flag-waving experience with unparalleled music at this family-friendly event as we present emotionally-charged music especially suited to Memorial Day. The program includes some of the most demanding works ever written and arranged for brass including “Crown Imperial” (Walton), “Finlandia” (Sibelius), “Variations on America” (Ives), “Resurrection Symphony Finale” (Mahler), “Irish Tune from County Derry” (Grainger), “Nimrod” (Elgar) and “Semper Fi” (Sousa). We will remember and honor those who have fallen in defense of our country during performances of  “Taps” and “Retreat” specially arranged for the “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band by former USMC arranger Thomas Knox.

And there is more than just brass. Mezzo-soprano Heather Gallagher sings the “Star Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful” with unique arrangements for solo voice and brass. In addition, Shakespearean scholar Robert Lublin, PhD. Professor of Theatre Arts, UMASS Boston, sets the mood with a special presentation prior to “Romeo and Juliet” (Sergei Prokofiev arranged for brass by Joseph Kreines). We will be joined by WGBH/WCRB’s Brian McCreath as our emcee and Lawrence Isaacson as our Music Director.