“A DREAM that a stirring patriotic concert would be presented in Williamsport to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America is about to come true.”

“You will be astounded. You will be blown away,” a news release announcing the “Salute to America” concert says. “You will be deeply touched. You will hear the Royal Trumpet with the King of Instruments. And while listening you will see the countryside of the USA, stately buildings, military action, solemn ceremonies, historic vistas – all on screen as the music sounds forth.”

The concert will be at 3 p.m., May 9, 807 W. Fourth St.

“Historic Covenant Central Presbyterian Church is the site of this dream,” the news release said. “Located on West Fourth Street in Williamsport since 1920, the sanctuary has the perfect acoustic for the trumpet to sound and the grand organ pipes to proclaim the celebration of the greatest country on earth.”

A SALUTE TO AMERICA 250 opens with the stirring Fanfare for the Common Man by Aaron Copland and, after the stirring sound of the Star Spangled Banner, the concert moves through many hymns and folk songs of America.

“A homage to the sacrifices of war includes a D-Day tribute, a Vietnam tribute using the song Mansions of the Lord, the well-known Civil War song Battle Hymn of the Republic, and a solemn Arlington Cemetery Military Funeral,” the news release said. “This rich in history concert will conclude with the artists’ special arrangement of The Stars and Stripes Forever. And remember that throughout the concert, you will be delighted with scenes in video action fitted artistically to the music.”

No tickets are required. Optional donations to augment the support of our sponsors in bringing this concert from Washington DC to Williamsport will be accepted. Any money exceeding these costs will be donated to a local charity.

Contact Donna Elkin for additional information.