An Evening of John Philip Sousa

From Connie Lester, Redfern: Step back in time to the famous beat of America’s March King in An Evening of John Philip Sousa on Tuesday, April 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Main Theatre of the Redfern. Dr. Keith Brion, guest conductor of the KSC Concert Band, will recreate a concert by one of the most famous and popular musical personalities of the 20th century in honor of Keene State’s Centennial Celebration. Sousa visited Keene with his band on six occasions between 1897 and 1912, performing at either the city’s Opera House or City Hall.

Brion, who portrays this American phenomenon, is considered the single greatest authority on Sousa and will prepare an historically accurate recreation of a Sousa Band concert. He will lead the KSC Concert Band in an evening of classical, dance, and popular music, exactly as it would have been heard 100 years ago. “Sousa’s concerts were rarely all-Sousa,” explained Brion, “but rather a mixture of light classics, novelties, and brilliant instrumental and vocal solos, with Sousa marches played as rapid-fire encores.”

Featured performers will be KSC music performance major Heather O’Connor ’09 (soprano) and music faculty members James Boccia (trumpet) and Dr. Craig Sylvern (saxophone).

Brion will be in week-long residence at the college, speaking to classes on music history, conducting, and the theatre craft involved in depicting the on-stage persona. He will also rehearse with the Concert Band to prepare for the April 7 performance.
Please call the box office (8-2168) for tickets.