Dr. Scott Stewart Shares His Americana Playlist In Honor Of Independence Day Weekend
Fourth of July weekend is coming up and it’s time for fireworks, food, and—of course—fun music. WABE music contributor Dr. Scott Stewart joined “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes to talk about some celebratory music as we observe our nation’s birthday.
“I have memories of live or televised 4th of July concerts, merged with memories of family and friends, cookouts, parades, and fireworks celebrations—all very “Americana!” I love that music is entrenched in this holiday. A lot of it is expected—marches, anthems, and—for some reason, the 1812 Overture. I still haven’t figured out why Americans love a piece by a Russian composer about a French war…I guess it’s the cannons,” said Stewart.
He continued, “Today’s playlist takes a look—or listen—at music that is distinctly “American” in feel and flavor. It’s music that rejoices in America’s ideals and aspirations and also acknowledges its potential to grow and become even better.”
Stewart’s Playlist:
1. American Overture for Band Joseph Wilcox Jenkins Lone Star Wind Orchestra, Eugene Corporon
2. Star-Spangled Banner arr. John Williams Lone Star Wind Orchestra, Eugene Corporon
3. Festival Overture on the National Air Dudley Buck United States Air Force Heritage of America Band
4. Early Light Carolyn Bremer UNT Wind Symphony, Eugene Corporon
5. Banner Jessie Montgomery Oberlin Conservatory Orchestra
7. Third Symphony Aaron Copland Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Yoel Levi
8. Afro-American Symphony William Grant Still Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Neeme Jarvi
9. American Symphony Adam Schoenberg Kansas City Symphony, Michael Stern
10. “America” from West Side Story Leonard Bernstein West Side Story OST (1961)
11. American Journey John Williams Utah Symphony Orchestra, John Williams
12. American Journey John Williams Utah Symphony Orchestra, John Williams
13. Fairest of the Fair John Philip Sousa United States Marine Band, Jason Fettig
14. Symphony on Themes of Sousa Ira Hearshen Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra, Frederick Fennell
15. The American Seasons Mark O’Connor Metamorphosis Chamber Orchestra, Scott Yoo
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