6/8/25 Spring Concert, “Musical Portraits of America”

Join us for an afternoon of powerful storytelling and musical brilliance at the Beaverton Community Band Spring Concert on June 8, 2025. Featuring stirring tributes, American classics, and contemporary works, this program celebrates motion, memory, honor, and joy.

American Flourish – Robert W. Smith: A dynamic showcase of classic American melodies like Yankee Doodle, Shenandoah, and When Johnny Comes Marching Home. This vibrant medley highlights our nation’s rich musical heritage.

Chester – William Schuman: A modern arrangement of a patriotic hymn first composed by William Billings in 1778. Originally published in The Singing Master’s Assistant, it became a rallying anthem for American Revolutionary soldiers. Sung around campfires and played by fife and drum corps, it captured the defiant spirit of the fight for independence.

Of Honor & Valor Eternal – Ayatey Shabazz: Dedicated to Tuskegee Airman Col. Lawrence, this piece honors the courage of America’s first black military airmen in the 99th Fighter Squadron of the US Army Air Corps.

In Motion – Lisa Neher: The debut of the three-movement work explores movement in all its forms—emotional, physical, and psychological. Catalyst bursts with joy and energy, Blossoming unfolds with gentle grace, and Terminus pulses with dark tension and finality. A rich, modern journey through rhythm and reflection.

Juba Dance – Robert Nathaniel Dett (orch. Sousa, ed. Schissel): Originally for piano, this dance comes alive in a vibrant windband arrangement. Spirited melodies honor Black American heritage in the Antebellum South. It is lively, cultural, and full of soul.

Letter from Home – Aaron Copland (arr. Belski): Written during WWII, this work is an emotional response to loss, loneliness, and longing. It’s gentle yet raw, nostalgic yet sorrowful. Copland channels the quiet heartbreak of being far from home.

Little Rhapsody in Blue – George Gershwin (arr. Campbell-Watson): A charming miniature of Gershwin’s jazz masterpiece, featuring our very own Natsumi Goto as soloist. With its playful flair and bright personality, it offers a delightful taste of the original.

Symphonic Songs for Band – Robert Russell Bennett: Movement II (Spiritual) blends jazzy lyricism with unexpected rhythm, while Movement III (Celebrations) is a festive romp through quirky, familiar motifs. Originally premiered by a national student ensemble in 1957.

An American Fanfare – Rick Kirby: “My Country ’Tis of Thee” gets a thrilling transformation in this bold, high-speed fanfare. Snippets of the iconic melody emerge from a whirlwind of modern harmonies.

Mark Your Calendar! 

• Date: June 8th, 2025
• Time: 3pm
• Location: Jesuit High School: 9000 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Highway, Portland, OR, 97225.
• Tickets: Tickets can be purchased via the BCB website or at the door!