Last night I decided to celebrate it big city style by attending the Independence Eve Concert at Civic Center Park. What a night to remember! The programme was phenomenal, not to mention having the opportunity to hear the world famous Colorado Symphony Orchestra play (for free may I add). Arriving a couple hours early, I found a great seat front and center, about 50 yards from the stage and was able to enjoy an afternoon picnic with some Blue Moon, fresh veggies and a good book until showtime.
The 12 acre park was packed - every square inch - and people sat as far back as the steps of the Capitol building. In this video of part I of the concert, you can see how packed it was! The concert began with the Star Spangled Banner, Fanfare for the Common Man (Copland), Jubilee (Chadwick), and Three Dance Episodes from Bernstein's On the Town.
Tchaikovsky's 1812 overture was as moving as ever. If you can't watch it all, at least watch the last 5 minutes of this video of part II showing Copland's Lincoln Portrait, William's Liberty Fanfare, an Armed forces medley and the 1812 overture.
The last three selections were the biggest fanfare of all as it was accompanied by choreographed fireworks from the courthouse. Fireworks are great, but never before have I realized their beauty as when they are synchronized perfectly to patriotic music, enhanced by theatrical lighting and illuminate beautiful architecture as the Denver Courthouse. I love Sousa's Stars & Stripes Forever, but this experience took the cake! Of the three videos I linked, you HAVE to watch the finale in part III: America the Beautiful, Colonel Bogey March, and Stars & Stripes Forever.
This sort of event is what I believe our founding fathers had in mind when they envisioned Americans rallying around the birth of our nation. A weekend filled with music, games, activities, celebration in a public atmosphere and most of all a patriotic sense of community that brings us together as a civil union. The only thing missing was a reminder of the ideas and truths that brought this country into fruition (i.e. the Declaration of Independence reading anyone?), however I must concede that the recitations that accompany Lincoln Portrait present a remarkable moment in our nation's growth.
P.S. Does this painting look familiar to any of you Hillsdale Grads? hint, hint - its on display at the Kirby Center...
I hope to go again next year to share this patriotic experience with a group of friends, picnic encampment and everything! Next time I'd love to hostess with a cute picnic set and wine glass holders so we can enjoy some New Age or other refreshing summer Torrontes/ Sauvignon Blanc varietals with a great meal.
Wishing you all a happy July 4th surrounded by family, friends & fireworks! What sort of traditions do your cities put on for Independence Day?
No comments:
Post a Comment