Happy 250th Birthday USA Concert

On May 16 we’re celebrating America’s 250th birthday with a program that weaves together spirituals, folk traditions, Broadway, and beloved patriotic anthems. This concert reflects the many voices and stories that shape our shared musical heritage.

Act I: Roots, Reflection, and Resilience

The Star-Spangled Banner

Our national anthem opens the program with a moment of unity and pride.

We Shall Walk Through the Valley (Undine Moore)

A deeply expressive spiritual arrangement by a pioneering American composer.

Soloist: Deirdre Pagani

Precious Lord, Take My Hand (Thomas A. Dorsey)

A cornerstone of American gospel music, filled with heartfelt devotion.

Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel? (Moses Hogan)

A powerful and rhythmic spiritual that showcases the choir’s energy and precision.

Homeland (Z. Randall Stroope)

A moving contemporary work reflecting on identity, belonging, and hope.

The Boatman’s Dance (Aaron Copland)

A lively folk-inspired piece capturing early American spirit.

Soloist: Clint Cooper

The Promise of Living (from The Tender Land, Aaron Copland)

A sweeping and hopeful ensemble piece about community and shared purpose.

Four-Hand Piano: Mary Ellen Loose & Jason Neumann

Bridge Over Troubled Water (Paul Simon)

A timeless song of comfort and support, reimagined for choir.

Audience Sing-Along – please join us for a few favorites! (see lyrics in your program)

America (My Country, ’Tis of Thee)

Yankee Doodle

This Land Is Your Land

Intermission

Act II: Celebration and Community

Presentation of High School Voice Scholarships

Honoring the next generation of singers: Lila Weber and Bryce Bartel

Dancing with George M!

A spirited nod to the Broadway music of George M. Cohan.

Do You Hear the People Sing? (from Les Misérables)

A stirring anthem of hope and collective voice.

Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy

A swing-era classic with infectious energy.

Trumpet: Mike Downey

Amor Eterno and Volver, Volver

A vibrant celebration of musical traditions that are an essential part of our cultural landscape.

Mariachi Trio: Matt Morales, Candice Ibanez, Eduardo Paredes

When Johnny Comes Marching Home (arranged by Dan Davison)

A Civil War-era tune reimagined with dynamic flair.

Four-Hand Piano: Mary Ellen Loose & Jason Neumann

America the Beautiful (arranged by Rob Hopkins)

A rich and resonant interpretation of this beloved hymn.

God Bless America (Irving Berlin)

A heartfelt moment bringing performers and audience together.

Soloist: Kim Baney | Trumpet: Mike Downey | audience participation

Raffle Announcement

Basket raffle and 50/50 drawing winners

Battle Hymn of the Republic (arranged by Peter J. Wilhousky)

A thrilling and triumphant conclusion to our celebration!

Thank You for the Music (from Mamma Mia, ABBA)

A joyful and nostalgic tribute to the power of music to shape our lives.

This program is more than a concert—it’s a tribute to the many voices, traditions, and communities that continue to shape America’s story. We can’t wait to share it with you.

TICKETS

Happy 250th Birthday USA

3pm Saturday, May 16, 2026

North Scottsdale United Methodist Church

11735 North Scottsdale Road