New Holland Band To Perform

Ken Laudermilch, conductor of the New Holland Band, noted that the organization has plenty of music to choose from when he selects compositions for the band to play at the annual New Holland Summer Arts Program (NHSAP) Independence Day celebration. This year's concert, which will be followed by a fireworks display, will be held in the New Holland Community Memorial Park, located on the 400 block of East Jackson Street, on Monday, July 4, at 7 p.m. The rain date for the event is Tuesday, July 5.

"We have put a big folder together of patriotic music," said Laudermilch. "We add a few each year, and we have about 50 (pieces) now." From the folder, Laudermilch chooses historic pieces, marches, service hymns, and a "large slice of American tunes associated with coming-of-age America from Revolutionary times."

Laudermilch pointed out that this year's concert will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the New Holland American Legion Post 662 by playing the "American Legion March," composed by M.A. Althouse of nearby Berks County. "(Althouse) is like the Sousa of Berks County," said Laudermilch. "He has written a lot of great marches."

Another prominent feature of the concert will be the premiere of a march by New Holland Band member Warren Daugherty, a retired dentist and the principal saxophonist of the band. Laudermilch said that this is one of several compositions Daugherty has written for the band. "Into the Air" salutes the courageous members of the U.S. Air Force.

Other selections Laudermilch gave special mention include "Star-Spangled Spectacular" by George Cohan, which includes smatterings of well-known tunes such as "Yankee Doodle" and "You're a Grand Old Flag."

Calling the "Commando March" by Samuel Barber, one of his favorites, Laudermilch recalled that the West Chester native was lauded by his hometown for going forth to "inspire the world with his music."

The second half of the concert will include the popular "God Bless the U.S.A." by Lee Greenwood; "The Armed Forces Medley," during which those who served in different branches of the military will be asked to stand when they hear the anthem of their branch; and "Let Freedom Ring," which Laudermilch called "a great new piece."

The concert will be announced by Steve Nolt, formerly of WDAC radio. The performance is one of many musical presentations brought to the park each summer by NHSAP. All shows are free to the public. For more information about NHSAP and a full concert schedule, visit http://www.newhollandsummerarts.com. NHSAP welcomes volunteers. Readers who have questions may email newhollandsummerartsassoc@gmail.com.