As July ends, let freedom ring at Beale Memorial Library.
In celebration of the United States’ semiquincentennial, the library will host its America’s 250th Celebration Concert, a joint performance featuring Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra musicians and the Bakersfield College Choir, on Friday.
This patriotic concert will begin with opening remarks from Nick Gonzalez, executive director of the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, and Bruce Wearda of the Kern chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.
“We’re going to open with him (Wearda) talking about the establishment of the color guard and the flag ceremony, where it originated, why it originated and why it still is done to this day,” said Lynne Kemmer, local history and workforce librarian.
SAR members will then conduct the ceremonial presentation.
A quartet of symphony musicians will offer a program set to include “America the Beautiful,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “The Stars and Stripes Forever” and “The Washington Post March.” After a brief intermission, the Bakersfield College Choir, led by choral director Jennifer Garrett, will perform.
The group’s set list will consist of “Saints Bound for Heaven,” “It is Well With my Soul,” “Unclouded Day,” “Eloyi,” “Witness” and “America the Beautiful — Epilogue.”
After the music, SAR members will also read excerpts of the Declaration of Independence.
The concert will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Friday at the auditorium of the library, 701 Truxtun Ave.
Stefani Dias can be reached at 661-395-7488. Follow her on Twitter at @realstefanidias.