Nittany Valley Symphony’s “America at 250” Celebrates a Century of Sound
The Nittany Valley Symphony is set to present “America at 250,” a concert celebrating the diverse musical landscape of the United States, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. In Eisenhower Auditorium.
A Musical Tapestry of American Genres
The program promises a journey through Jazz, Classical, Film scores, and Musical Theatre, showcasing how these genres have shaped American music throughout the 20th century. Music Director and Conductor Timothy Farrand emphasizes the program’s broad appeal, stating, “This program has a little bit of something for everyone. That is the beauty of American music: It is a mix of many different styles and genres.”
Featured Composers and Works
Attendees can anticipate selections from the iconic songbooks of Cole Porter and Irving Berlin. The concert will also feature William Grant Still’s “Poem” (1944), alongside highlights from John Williams’ score for “Jurassic Park,” arranged by Calvin Custer. Leonard Bernstein’s influence will be prominent, with performances of both “On the Waterfront” Symphonic Suite (1955) and the “Candide” Overture.
The Enduring Legacy of American Composers
Farrand notes that “American music has never been defined by a single tradition, but by a vibrant blend of styles and art forms.” “America at 250” aims to honor the remarkable range of composers and genres that have defined American music over the past century.
Ticket Information and Accessibility
Tickets are available for purchase at https://www.nvs.org/upcoming-events/americaat250. Adult tickets are priced at $29, while students and those under 18 can attend for $9. Savings of $4 per ticket are available when ordering by phone at (814) 863-0255 or in person at the Arts Ticket Center. Parking is available for $5.66 when reserved in advance, or $10 on the day of the performance.
Future Trends in Orchestral Programming
The Nittany Valley Symphony’s approach with “America at 250” reflects a growing trend in orchestral programming: a move towards more inclusive and accessible concerts. Orchestras are increasingly recognizing the need to connect with wider audiences by showcasing diverse musical styles and composers.
Blending Tradition with Innovation
This concert exemplifies a strategy of blending traditional orchestral repertoire with popular and contemporary works. This approach can attract new audiences who might not typically attend classical concerts. The inclusion of film scores, like the “Jurassic Park” highlights, is a particularly effective way to bridge the gap between classical music and popular culture.
The Rise of Thematic Concerts
Thematic concerts, such as “America at 250,” are also gaining popularity. These concerts offer a cohesive narrative and provide a deeper understanding of a particular musical period, style, or composer. This curated experience can be more engaging for audiences than a standard program of unrelated pieces.
FAQ
Q: Where is the concert being held?
A: Eisenhower Auditorium.
Q: What is the price of tickets?
A: $29 for adults and $9 for students/those under 18.
Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: Online at https://www.nvs.org/upcoming-events/americaat250, by phone at (814) 863-0255, or in person at the Arts Ticket Center.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, parking is $5.66 when reserved in advance, or $10 on the day of the performance.
Q: What composers are featured in the program?
A: Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, William Grant Still, John Williams, and Leonard Bernstein.
