America’s birthday is typically a time to gather with friends and neighbors, honoring the country we live in through firework displays, cookouts and parties galore. Of course, with the coronavirus continuing to spread, community events have been canceled, postponed or altered in size, but that doesn’t mean the Fourth of July celebration can’t go on.
This year, whether from your couch, the back deck or poolside, bring the family together to watch a few live concerts virtually—hosted by professional artists and Northern Virginia organizations—that are sure to get you all in the patriotic spirit.
While famed performance venue Wolf Trap has canceled all performances for the 2020 summer season, it is continuing to bring live music to its fans through its virtual Park Pop-Up events. To debut the series, the U.S. Marine Band’s Free Country Acoustic Quartet will perform a Fourth of July show on July 4. at 4 p.m..
The U.S. Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization, bringing tunes to stages across the country since 1798. Its Free Country Acoustic Quartet is composed of four musicians—a bassist, a guitarist and two vocalists— who perform everything from modern rock to country and more. For America’s Birthday Celebration, the quartet will perform well-known patriotic hits, as well as a few pop tunes familiar to all viewers. Plus, you may even be able to see some fireworks in the background of your screen too.
Another celebration worth watching comes from a new partnership between National Harbor, Washington Performing Arts and The U.S. Air Force Band titled A Tribute to the American Spirit, coming to screens near you on the Fourth, at 4 p.m.
The event, hosted by NBC4’s anchor Aaron Gilchrist, will consist of live performances from world-renowned artists, including famed violinist Joshua Bell, singer Larisa Martinez and bassist Soloman Howard. According to a recent press release, the event is said to be a tribute to the resilience of all Americans, as well as to honor veterans on Independence Day.
“We are honored to have this partnership,” said Kent Digby, executive vice president of National Harbor in the recent press release. “National Harbor has a long-standing history of supporting our U.S. military through hosting concerts, special military events and programs. The concert will include noteworthy selections from the guest artists, as well as fun, patriotic favorites. The U.S. Air Force Band has something for everyone.”
To join in on National Harbor’s celebration, check out the livestream here.
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