For the sixth year in a row, Anne
Arundel County and the county's Cultural Arts Foundation will sponsor a
"Star-Spangled Celebration" Saturday for Independence Day featuring
the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra at Anne Arundel Community College.
Local talent that includes the
Crabtowne Big Band, the Annapolis Chorale and Maryland Sings will begin the
program on Siegert Field, starting at 5:30 p.m. The BSO concert is scheduled
for 8:15 p.m.
Each year, this event draws
larger audiences, attracting a record 20,000 last year. A major contributor to
the event's success every year is Cultural Arts Foundation director Carol
Treiber, who seems to relish working long hours on this event.
"This spectacular holiday
event is a wonderful opportunity for families to have a cultural experience of
quality entertainment," Treiber said. "The BSO is an international
symphony orchestra, whose musicians enjoy playing in this county because of
the warm welcome they are given."
"Having the Crabtowne Big
Band and the Annapolis Chorale to kick off this event again this year makes
the evening really extra special," she added.
Formed in 1981 in Anne Arundel
County, the Crabtowne Big Band has been a highlight of the Independence Day
event each year from its beginning in 1996. Band member Doug Hart reflects: "We've been doing this event for six years, and the Crabtowne Big Band
loves opening for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. We also enjoy working with
the Cultural Arts Foundation, and we like seeing everyone there."
Also on hand from the beginning
and returning this year is the 150-member Annapolis Chorale under director J.
Ernest Green, who will offer a mix of classic pops and Broadway show tunes.
Another vocal group, Maryland Sings, will be making its third appearance at
the event.
This lively Baltimore
County-based ensemble of high school and college-age performers, directed by
Bill Myers, will offer a variety of patriotic, folk and gospel songs.
The BSO will offer a program of
patriotic, popular and classical selections that will culminate with
Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" complete with spectacular fireworks.
BSO president John Gidwitz said,
"This concert, which is free to the public, has become a wonderful
tradition for the Baltimore Symphony and the citizens of Anne Arundel County.
Sharing music in such a festive and family environment is an experience we
look forward to at this time each year."
Scheduled to conduct at the
college's Siegert Field for the first time, BSO Assistant Conductor Lara
Webber said, "In the summer months, the BSO takes its show on the road,
bringing symphonic music to communities throughout the region. This concert
will be a great way to spend the evening with the entire family. ... I
understand this concert usually draws a very large and enthusiastic crowd. I
can't wait."
Concert-goers are encouraged to
arrive early to stake out a choice spot on the lawn for folding chairs,
blankets, and picnic baskets. Open bleacher seating is also available. Food
can be purchased at Siegert Field, and there will be face painting and other
activities for children.
Although this event is free to
the public, donations are accepted to benefit Anne Arundel's Cultural Arts
Foundation, supporting more than 32 arts organizations in the county.
Tickets are not required.
In the event of rain, the
concert will be held the next evening. For more information, call the Cultural
Arts Foundation at 410-222-7949.
