The McAllen Symphonic Band concert included some unique selections. There were Sousa marches of course and the familiar Armed Forces Salute that is played to honor each of the branches of the service.   It was an enjoyable concert with a fresh program that nicely lived up to its billing; “Celebrating America”.

Bullets and Bayonets, a Sousa march written to commemorate WWI veterans

American Anthem – from the movie “The War”

God’s Country – a musical landscape of great American places

To Those Who Serve – a tribute to firefighters and police

Powhatan’s Daughter – a Sousa march written to honor and recognize first nations peoples, specifically Pocahontas

Winged Victory

The Armed Forces Salute – nearly half the audience had stood to be recognized by the time this piece was over.

Stars and Stripes Forever – Sousa – piccolos of course

Fun stuff thrown in

Woodwind Polka (a re-arrangement of clarinet polka)

What’s up at the Orchestra? – tunes from loony tunes cartons. Its amazing how those long ago viewed images leap to life with just a few bars of music.