For the United States of America’s 250th anniversary, the American Symphony Orchestra celebrates the forging of an American musical identity in the 19th century with a diverse program of seldom performed scores. The concert’s centerpiece is George Bristow’s massive “Niagara Symphony” in its first performance since the work’s world premiere. The program begins with two scores of joyful, exuberant celebration, each one rhythmically propulsive and highly entertaining: the Festival Overture on the American National Air by Dudley Buck and Richard Wagner’s American Centennial March, which he wrote for the opening of the Declaration of Independence’s centennial celebration in 1876 in Philadelphia. Featured on the program are three spirituals—“Go Down, Moses,” “Behold that Star,” and “Swing Low, Swing Chariot”—arranged and orchestrated by innovative composer Harry Burleigh, America’s first prominent Black composer, whose momentous legacy is honored here for his important influence and major contributions to American concert music and the history of American art song. Acclaimed vocal soloists and the astounding Bard Festival Chorale join the orchestra onstage at Carnegie Hall for this one-night-only performance.

Tickets will go on-sale to the general public on September 8, 2025.

The ASO’s Vanguard Series is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.