The North Carolina Symphony will bring a powerful celebration of American music to Moore County this spring with its “Classical Favorites: Celebrating American 250” concert on April 23. Held at Owens Auditorium, the performance promises an evening that reflects the spirit, diversity, and evolution of the American sound through some of its most iconic composers.
Under the baton of Assistant Conductor Sophie Mok, the Symphony will perform works by three towering figures in American music: Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, and John Williams. Each composer represents a distinct voice in the nation’s musical identity, offering audiences a journey through the emotional, cultural, and imaginative landscapes that define the United States.
Few composers capture the pulse of American life quite like Bernstein. Known for his “radical eclecticism,” Bernstein blurred the lines between classical music and popular forms such as jazz and Broadway. His compositions embody the energy of urban America—vibrant, restless, and emotionally charged.
Whether conducting, composing, or educating, Bernstein refused to accept rigid distinctions between “high” and “low” art, instead crafting a sound that felt accessible yet deeply sophisticated. His work continues to resonate as a reflection of America’s cultural dynamism.
In contrast, Copland’s music evokes the expansive beauty of the American landscape. Often referred to as the “Dean of American Composers,” Copland helped define what many listeners recognize as the quintessential American sound. His compositions are marked by open harmonies and a sense of spaciousness that mirrors the vastness of the American West.
In the late 1930s, Copland intentionally simplified his musical language, seeking to connect with broader audiences and create a style that felt distinctly American rather than derivative of European traditions. The result was a body of work that remains both timeless and instantly recognizable.
Bridging the gap between classical tradition and modern popular culture is John Williams, whose music has become synonymous with cinematic storytelling.
As the heir to the Romantic tradition, Williams revived lush orchestral scoring at a time when much of contemporary classical music was becoming increasingly experimental. His embrace of “Neo-Romanticism” reintroduced audiences to the emotional power of the symphony orchestra, making it central to some of the most beloved film scores in history. Williams’ music represents the mythic dimension of America, capturing heroism, wonder, and imagination on a grand scale.
Together, the works of Bernstein, Copland, and Williams form a compelling portrait of American music—one that spans concert halls, open landscapes, and movie screens. This program not only celebrates the nation’s artistic heritage but also highlights how music continues to shape and reflect American identity.
The concert also underscores the enduring impact of the North Carolina Symphony itself. Founded in 1932, the organization has become a cornerstone of the state’s cultural life.
Each year, it presents more than 300 performances and educational programs, reaching audiences in all 100 counties across North Carolina. From large concert halls to community spaces, the Symphony’s mission is rooted in accessibility and engagement, ensuring that live orchestral music remains available to diverse audiences.
Under the artistic leadership of Carlos Miguel Prieto, the Symphony continues to expand its reach and artistic vision. Its home base, Meymandi Concert Hall in downtown Raleigh, serves as a hub for performances, while regional series and summer concerts extend its presence throughout the state.
The Symphony is equally committed to innovation, having premiered more than 50 new works and embraced digital platforms to connect with audiences worldwide.
The venue for this special performance, Owens Auditorium, adds to the experience.
Located on the campus of Sandhills Community College, the auditorium is part of the Sandhills Bradshaw Performing Arts Center and is widely praised for its exceptional acoustics and intimate design. Following a multi-million dollar renovation, the space offers an ideal setting for orchestral music, ensuring that every note is heard with clarity and precision. It is situated on the campus of Sandhills Community College, within the Van Dusen Hall building at 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst.
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this concert serves as both a tribute and a reflection—honoring the composers who have shaped the nation’s sound while celebrating the enduring power of live performance.
The evening promises not just a concert, but an immersive experience in the music that defines America. To purchase tickets, visit the North Carolina Symphony’s website at https://ncsymphony.org/events/celebrating-america-250-04-23-26-730pm-mc04/.

(Photo: The North Carolina Symphony will be celebrating the 250th birthday of the US with a concert at Owens Auditorium in Pinehurst. Photo courtesy of the North Carolina Symphony Facebook page)