Enjoy a free outdoor concert of patriotic music celebrating Independence Day at the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Bartow Arena on Tuesday, July 4, then stay to watch the fireworks show from atop Red Mountain.
The 7 p.m. concert is presented by the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Music. The UAB Summer Band will perform traditional and popular patriotic songs, including selections by composers George Gershwin, Meredith Wilson and John Philip Sousa. Audience members are encouraged to bring folding chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy during the concert.
Attendees will also have the chance to participate in a raffle to conduct the band playing “Stars and Stripes Forever” for the grand finale. The fireworks show will begin at 9 p.m.
The annual UAB Summer Band boasts approximately 60 people, including UAB faculty members, students and alumni, as well as professional and amateur musicians from the community. Some members have played with the group for more than 15 years. The band has been rehearsing weekly since the beginning of June. UAB Director of Bands Sean Murray, Ph.D., will conduct, along with Assistant Director of Bands Cara Morantz, Ed.D. The concert will also feature UAB students and local middle and high schools band directors as guest conductors.