One nation. Many voices.
Celebrate the nation’s past and present when Coastal Voices presents “America @ 250: One Nation, Many Voices,” a concert series marking the United States’ 250th anniversary.
The four-concert series begins at the Newport Performing Arts Center this Saturday, May 2. The series continues with a performance at the Depoe Bay Community Center on Sunday, May 3, at Chapel-By-The-Sea in Lincoln City on Saturday, May 9, and wraps up at the Yachats Community Presbyterian Church on Sunday, May 10.
The program, developed by Artistic Director Rhodd Caldwell, reflects on the country’s founding ideals while engaging with the complexities of modern American life.
“My goal was to create a program that neither glosses over current struggles nor dismisses the progress made since the country’s founding, but instead seeks to uphold our shared commitment to the ideals of democracy in this time of political and social tension,” he said.
The concert opens with music inspired by foundational American texts including the Preamble to the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address. SoundWaves, a chamber ensemble drawn from the larger choir, will offer fresh takes on familiar works including “Yankee Doodle” and a jazz-influenced “The Star-Spangled Banner,” alongside the Shaker tune “A Festive Call to Freedom.” Section concludes with a guided audience sing-along honoring active service members and veterans.
After intermission, guests can browse song-themed raffle baskets before the program turns to contemporary reflections on American life. Selections include Paul Simon’s “American Tune,” arranged by Coastal Voices member Vern Sanders and “Let’s Reach a New Height” by composer Chen Yi. Additional works highlight diverse perspectives, from the gospel-inspired “United in Purpose,” featuring words by Maya Angelou, to “Mi Lugar” by Carlos Cordero and “We Are the Storm,” incorporating North American Indian melodies. The program concludes with an a cappella rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine.”
All performances begin at 4 pm. Tickets for Saturday’s opening performance are $25 for adults aged 18 to 54, $15 for guests aged 55 and older, and $15 for active military and veterans.
Tickets for all other locations are $20 for adults aged 18 to 54 and $10 for those aged 55 and older, active military and veterans. Kids aged 17 and younger are free at all venues. For more information, go to coastal-voices.org.