Idaho Falls Symphony to host free Sounds of America concert this Saturday

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The Idaho Falls Symphony is hosting its free “Sounds of America” concert Saturday at Freeman Park at 5:30 p.m.

The outdoor concert will feature a variety of American music, including “Stars and Stripes Forever,” jazz by Duke Ellington, a tribute to Abraham Lincoln and movie music.

The concert will feature Idaho Falls Symphony performers Emma Rubinstein, concertmaster and violinist; Melissa Dayley on viola; and Karen Bechtel on cello.

Organizers say the outdoor concert will have a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees can bring blankets and picnics, and food trucks will also be available.

Melissa Dayley said the outdoor setting makes the concert a fun and accessible way for people who may not have attended a symphony before to experience a performance.

The symphony recommends arriving around 5 p.m. to find a spot, as a large crowd is expected. Parking is available at Freeman Park.

The program will also include “Ashokan Farewell” by Jay Ungar, a well-known fiddle tune written in 1982. The piece was featured in Ken Burns' documentary series about the Civil War and is described by the musicians as haunting but beautiful, with the feel of a Scottish lament.

Watch the full performance from their visit to the station in the video above. You can visit the Idaho Falls Symphony website to learn more about the symphony, upcoming performances, and events.