The Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra invites area residents and visitors from far and near to celebrate Independence Day in style with a patriotic concert in conjunction with the annual “I Love America” Celebration Event co-sponsored by the College Station Noon Lions Club, the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and the BVSO. With the orchestra led by Music Director, Marcelo Bussiki, what better location for this concert to take place on Thursday, July 4, than at the one and only iconic Bush Library and Museum? The program includes patriotic standards like Sousa’s heart-stirring marches and the iconic 1812 Overture. The concert concludes with a dazzling fireworks display overhead.
There are only fourteen presidential libraries in existence in the United States, and one of them is right here in Bryan College Station.
“Attending a patriotic concert at a presidential library is as American as you can get on Independence Day,” says BVSO Executive Director, Mary Koeninger. “We are so fortunate in this community to have the Bush Library. There is no better place to hear a symphony performance and watch fireworks than at our concert with such an idyllic and meaningful location as the George H.W. Bush Library serving as the stunning backdrop. This type of concert is what makes our community stand out as one rich in its art offerings and desirable for outside visitors to come and experience our welcoming, hometown culture.”
Past attendees have shared about how much they love the orchestra and what talented musicians have played for our community, commenting that this is the only time people can get right up close to the orchestra. Some even arrive at the event site early to stake out their position for the concert and fireworks. The proximity to the music and the musicians with the picturesque library crowning the scene proves to be an enjoyable experience adding to the proud feelings a concert like this can stir. This free concert is a perfect time for young children to see and hear symphony music in a fun and casual setting where the kids are welcome to march around, sing along, and dance.
The “I Love America” Celebration begins at 9:30am with free admission to the George H. W. Bush Library and Museum. Concessions are open from 12 to 9pm and the Kid’s Zone is be available from 6:15 to 8:30pm for families, along with other live entertainment and activities. Free parking is available at Fan Field, the gravel parking lot on Research Parkway on the Texas A&M University campus. Barbara Bush Drive closes at 4pm and all attendees must enter through Research Parkway upon arrival. Handicapped parking is available in Lot 41 in front of the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum entrance. Come early and bring lawn chairs, picnic baskets, and blankets. No pets or glass containers are permitted.
The symphony concert begins around 8:30pm. Call the Symphony Office at (979) 696-6100 with any further questions or visit the BVSO website at www.bvso.org. For a detailed schedule on the full day of activities, visit www.bush41.org/events.
