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Showings
Program
View Digital Program-
Chester
*Classics Only
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New England Triptych
III. Chester
*Classics Only
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Piano Concerto No. 9, K. 271
I. Allegro
II. Andantino
III. Rondo : Presto
Jonathan Biss, piano
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New England Holidays
I. Washington’s Birthday
II. Decoration Day
III. The Fourth of July
IV. Thanksgiving and Forefathers’ Day
Artists
Additional Info
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding with the music that resonated through the American colonies during the fight for independence. Sounds of a New Nation brings to life the anthems, hymns, and symphonic works that shaped the soundscape of early America, juxtaposing patriotic fervor and European influences, and hear these anthems and hymns woven into the dizzying tapestry of Ives’s A Symphony.
William Billings, often called America’s first composer, captured the revolutionary spirit in his Part-Songs and Fuguing Tunes, while Chester—a rallying cry of the era—later found new life in Schuman’s New England Triptych. Charles Ives’ A Symphony: New England Holidays paints a bold and nostalgic portrait of early American traditions, echoing the music of the past through a modern lens.
Even as America declared its independence, European music remained influential. Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9, composed in the same revolutionary era, just an ocean away, brings the elegance and sophistication admired on colonial concert stages.
Join us as we mark this historic milestone with a concert that captures the sound and spirit of 1776—music that inspired a revolution and shaped a nation.
FAQs
At most of our venues, if you arrive after the concert has begun, an usher will seat you at an appropriate time, such as during applause or intermission. At the Kentucky Center, monitors located in the lobby allow you to follow the performance while you wait.
Concert length varies, but we recommend planning for about two hours, including an intermission. Digital programs include the specific music run-time, which can give you a better idea of the concert length. Please note that music run-time only covers the pieces being performed and does not account for speaking between pieces, applause, etc.
At The Kentucky Center, Old Forester Paristown Hall, and The Louisville Palace, you will go through security checkpoints upon entry. Expect to pass through a metal detector, and note that all bags may be searched. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside. Check each venue's Visitors Guide for more details:
- The Kentucky Center and Old Forester Paristown Hall - View Visitors Guide
- The Louisville Palace - View Visitors Guide
For events at outdoor or alternate venues, please check your email for "Know Before You Go" information, sent to the email of the ticket purchaser. For further questions, contact our Patron Services team at 502.587.8681.
Come as yourself! There’s no dress code, so wear what makes you feel comfortable. You’ll see everything from business and cocktail attire to casual and creative styles.
We ask all audience members to silence their phones before the performance begins. Photos and videos are prohibited, as light from screens can be distracting.
Snacks and drinks are sometimes available for purchase before the concert and during intermission. Alcoholic beverages are available for guests 21+ with a valid ID. We recommend dining before the show; check out our interactive map for nearby hotels, restaurants, and parking options.
Parking is available for purchase at all partner venues. For convenience, use our interactive map for parking recommendations as well as nearby hotels and restaurants.
Join us for free pre-concert talks before each Coffee and Classics Series concert, hosted by WUOL. These engaging talks often feature composers, conductors, or musicians from the program, who share fascinating details and insights about the music you're about to experience.
Sponsors
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