Idaho State-Civic Symphony to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with Free Concert

The Idaho State-Civic Symphony is proud to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America at a free concert for the community on July 4, 8 p.m., at the Portneuf Wellness Complex. The performance features classic American tunes from our country’s premier composers, including Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein, and John Philip Sousa. Guest performers include renowned pianist Jeffrey Biegel, performing Peter Boyer’s Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue; Lenet Neifert singing Lift Every Voice and Sing, and vocalist Jenna McLean performing works from the Great American Songbook. Soprano Jordan Bowman will perform The Star Spangled Banner. This celebratory concert is free and takes place on July 4 at 8pm at the PORT, located in the Portneuf Wellness Complex. This concert is in collaboration with Bannock County, the Faye Yost White-Forrey Foundation, ICCU, Portneuf Medical Center, and Rhapsody National Initiative.

The 250th Anniversary of the USA concert allows local friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy a night of classic American fun. While the Idaho State-Civic Symphony performs, families are free to listen to patriotic songs, purchase nearby concessions, and stay to watch the fireworks on the amphitheatre lawn following the concert. This night is the perfect opportunity to hear a rowdy American march from John Phillip Sousa, an inspiring orchestral masterpiece from Aaron Copland, and other patriotic favorites. Each work offers different perspectives on what it means to be American, from defiant revolutionaries to inspired visionaries, which have formed the American identity. The Idaho State-Civic Symphony honors this American tradition and invites families to join them for this momentous celebration and national holiday.

This concert marks a pivotal moment in the Rhapsody National Initiative on America’s 250th birthday, where orchestras across all 50 states perform the work Rhapsody in Red, White, and Blue. This work honors American-made jazz and classical legend, George Gershwin, with its bluesy melodies and off-the-wall rhythms being reminiscent of the famous Rhapsody in Blue.

Free general admission lawn seating will be first-come-first serve. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. It is recommended that all attendees bring something to sit on, including blankets and low-to-the- ground chairs. Concessions will be available for purchase during the concert.