OAKHURST — The Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) will close out its 20th Anniversary Season with a grand Independence Day-themed concert on Friday, June 28th. Aptly titled Independence Day Spectacular!, the performance promises a mix of patriotic music, orchestral classics, and a finale complete with 16 digitally performed cannon blasts.

New Venue, Timeless Music

Location of event

For the first time, the concert will take place at the Episcopal Conference Center Oakhurst (ECCO). With its lakeside setting, grand fountain, and surrounding wildlife, ECCO provides a scenic new home for the annual event. It replaces the Wawona Hotel’s great lawn, which remains closed for renovations.

The evening’s program features American patriotic selections alongside the complete set of Sir Edward Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance Marches. While March No. 1 is a graduation staple, the remaining four marches span three decades of Elgar’s work and are equally deserving of the spotlight. Also featured is Elgar’s March of the Mogul Emperors from his Crown of India suite. Unlike traditional pieces, this one features a unique 3/4 time signature.

Tchaikovsky Finale

Independence Day Spectacular Flyer (Click to Enlarge)

The concert’s dramatic finish comes from Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, performed with authentic-sounding cannon fire. Designed by sound artist David Budries using the same technology employed by the Boston Pops and Hartford Pops, the digital cannons add a dimension to the iconic piece. Though written to mark Russia’s victory over Napolean in 1812, the overture has become an American Independence Day concert favorite. MYSO Founder and Conductor Les Marsden explores this tradition in depth in the free program notes, available at MYSO.live.

Tickets & Tips

Discounted advance-sale tickets are strongly recommended, as prices rise at the door. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring flashlights and mosquito repellent to enhance their enjoyment of the evening.

Purchase can be purchased securely, here. Full concert details and downloadable program notes are also online.