As in prior years, the Philly Pops will perform multiple concerts during Philadelphia’s annual weeklong Fourth of July celebrations, known as the Wawa Welcome America festival. The Philly Pops is currently marking its 40th year, and it was named the 2018 Welcome America Honoree by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney for its contributions to the community through its “POPS in Schools” education programs and its “Salute Series” honoring the military, veterans, and first responders. The Philly Pops will perform three concerts on July 3 and 4. Guest conductor Todd Ellison will lead the July 3 “Pops on Independence” concert in front of Independence Hall, featuring songs that have connections to the Pops’ history and showcasing artists and music with Philadelphia roots. On the morning of July 4, Ellison will lead a Philly Pops Big Band performance at Independence Hall, followed by a ceremony honoring the Philly Pops’ 40-year history. For the July 4 evening concert on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Philly Pops Big Band, led by Philly Pops Principal Trumpet Matt Gallagher, will perform music ranging from swing, ragtime, and jazz to R&B, Latin, blues, and rock, with vocal soloist Heather Headley and other guest artists.
Posted June 29, 2018
