Annual Independence Day Concert
The Westfield Community Band, under the direction of Dr. Thomas Connors, continues its 112th season with its annual Independence Day Concert on July 4th at 7:30 p.m. in Mindowaskin Park. The band will be joined by members of the Westfield Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), who will present a special program in tribute to Independence Day. Also featured will be appearances by Westfield’s own “Towne Crier”, who will present the “news of the day” and an Independence Day address by a selected community leader.
The band’s music program will feature selections which celebrate America and American composers, including “National Emblem March”, “A Copland Portrait”, showcasing the music of Aaron Copland, “Cole Porter on Broadway” and “Music for A Festival”, by contemporary composer, Philip Sparke. This special program will also include guest vocalist Kerry Stubbs joining with the band for performances of “America the Beautiful”, “What a Wonderful World”, and Irving Berlin’s classic, “God Bless America”.
The band continues its 2024 Summer Concert Series with a concert on July 11th. The band rehearses each Wednesday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Community Room in the Westfield Municipal Building, 425 East Broad Street. The band’s membership includes musicians from ages 18 to 80, including many active and retired music educators. Under the music direction of Dr. Thomas Connors, now celebrating his 20th anniversary season, the band performs a wide variety of concert band literature, including many classic and contemporary compositions. Experienced area musicians who are interested in a position with the band should contact band manager Barry Rosenberg at 908-337-9073 or info@westfieldcommunityband.com.
The band’s Summer Concert Series is sponsored by the Westfield Recreation Department, Megan Schaffer, Director. The band’s concerts are made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
Chairs and blankets are recommended. In the event of rain, the concert will take place in the Westfield Community Room, located in the Westfield Municipal Building.
