America the Beautiful: A Night of Music, Unity, and Community
On November 2nd, the Sewickley United Methodist Church and the Charles Wesley Music Foundation had the honor of hosting the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra for a breathtaking evening of music titled "America the Beautiful: A Celebration of the Music and People of the United States," led by their Music Director and Principal Conductor, Alejandro Pinzón.
The concert opened with John Philip Sousa's "Presidential Polonaise." Sousa, known as the "March King," gave us a regal piece that resonated with national pride. The intricate rhythms and exuberant brass section captured the crowd, bringing a sense of occasion to the performance.
“The opening piece really set the tone for the evening—patriotic and powerful.”
Next was Aaron Copland's "Lincoln Portrait," narrated by Adam Brock, Semi-Finalist for American Idol Season 11. This powerful piece combined Copland's characteristic orchestral language with spoken excerpts from Abraham Lincoln's speeches. The vivid imagery of Lincoln's words brought history to life, and the music enveloped the audience, reminding us of the strength and unity that lies at the heart of the American story.
“Adam Brock’s narration was incredibly moving. Hearing Lincoln’s words alongside the music made me feel deeply connected to our history.”
Before the intermission, Bob Lowden's arrangement of the "Armed Forces Salute" added an especially touching moment to the program, recognizing the contributions of our service members with pride and gratitude. The energy in the room was palpable as audience members stood to honor their respective branches.
“It was a deeply touching tribute. Seeing everyone stand for their branch filled me with pride.”
During the intermission, attendees enjoyed delicious cookies, adding a warm and communal touch to the evening.
The program continued with Paul Scott's "America the Beautiful." The piece filled the sanctuary with a spirit of hope, peace, and unity, creating a beautiful moment for all in attendance.
Victor Herbert's "American Fantasie" followed, providing a captivating journey through a medley of melodies from the American folk tradition. Herbert’s composition effortlessly blended different musical styles, reminding us of the beautiful diversity that makes our nation unique.
The concert concluded with an encore of John Philip Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever," leaving the audience with a sense of patriotic pride and joy.
This program was originally intended for the 4th of July, but the orchestra no longer performs concerts in the summer. We felt that presenting it now, so close to the upcoming election, was especially fitting. It served as a reminder of the importance of unity, a value that transcends seasons and political moments.
Thank you to everyone who joined us—and to the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra for their incredible talent and dedication. We look forward to many more moments like this, celebrating music, community, and the shared experiences that bring us closer together.
