Brush up your Sousa.
There was some doubt as to whether the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera would be able to continue the Independence Day Pops on the River tradition this year, but thanks to last-minute sponsorships, the show will indeed go on. The concert will take place Saturday in Coolidge Park.
“Thumbs up, thumbs up,” exclaimed Robert Bernhardt of the program, which is a combination of “patriotic American music and Americana,” he said. It includes selections from John Philip Sousa and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, as well as “The Armed Forces Salute” and selections from “Oklahoma” and “Star Trek.”
What, exactly, does “Star Trek” have to do with July Fourth?
“‘Star Trek’ music is kind of iconic,” Bernhardt said, “especially the opening of the original and the ‘Next Generation.'”
Past years have featured other Americana, including Disney music. This year, the CSO will play a John Williams selection, “The Cowboys Overture,” written for the 1972 John Wayne film “The Cowboys.”
Local band the Dismembered Tennesseans will perform a set during the show.
The performance will culminate with a patriotic sing-along, including “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “America the Beautiful,” “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” and, of course, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
“It’s the best patriotic sing along that I have found in my 170 years as a conductor,” said Bernhardt, joking about his longevity (he’s been with the CSO 17 years).
Guests may bring blankets or lawn chairs for a picnic during the free concert and subsequent fireworks display. Food, beer and nonalcoholic drinks will be on sale in the park.
Coolidge Park will close to traffic at at 4:30 p.m. Free parking will be available at the Unum lots between Fourth and Fifth streets. A free shuttle will transport passengers between 6 and 11 p.m.
In the event of rain, the performance will take place Sunday.
IF YOU GO
What: Chattanooga Symphony & Opera’s Pops on the River concert.
When: 8-10 p.m. Saturday.
Where: Coolidge Park, 150 River St.
Admission: Free.
Phone: 265-0771.
Web site: chattanoogasymphony.org.