Town & Gown community band presents free summer concerts on June 4 and July 4

MURRAY, Ky. – The Murray State University Town & Gown community band will present two free concerts this summer.

The first concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4 at the Rotary Amphitheater located in Central Park on Gil Hopson Drive in Murray. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held in Lovett Auditorium located on Murray State’s campus.

The second summer concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 4 inside Lovett Auditorium during the annual Freedom Fest celebration. The Town & Gown Community Chorale will join the Community Band for the July 4 concert.

For the June 4 concert, the Town & Gown Community Band, which is made up of about 80 members from both Murray State and the community, will be conducted by Grayson Martin, Henry County High School director of bands. Guests at the June 4 concert will enjoy musical pieces such as “The White Rose” by John Philip Sousa, “My Old Kentucky Home” as arranged by Murray State alumnus Ron Cowherd, “Like the Wind” by Erika Svanoe and “Neon Lights” by Katahj Copley, to name a few. The public is welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets to the amphitheater.

On July 4, Dr. Bradley Almquist, Murray State professor of music, will conduct the Community Chorale, and Dr. Ashley Shoupe, Murray State assistant director of bands, will conduct the Community Band. Audience members can relax in the air-conditioned comfort of the recently renovated Lovett Auditorium as they enjoy holiday favorites performed by both the band and chorale.

“Excitement is in the air as our cherished Community Band and Chorale return to continue a beloved summer tradition,” said Jennifer Robertson, coordinator of the Town & Gown Community Partnership program. “We are incredibly thankful for the generous individuals and organizations who support Murray State Town & Gown and the cultural opportunities it provides. Please join us for a season of enriching performances and community spirit, made possible by the support of our dedicated partners. This summer promises to be a celebration of music, community and shared joy.”

Both concerts are free, and the public is cordially invited to attend.

The Town & Gown Partnership is an ongoing collaboration between Murray State University and the surrounding community that aims to enhance the quality of living and learning for everyone in the community. Town & Gown Partners include leaders from Murray State University administration and student government, local and state government, industry, small business, banking, health care providers and other community organizations. Membership fees help fund community projects and events such as these summer concerts. For more information about joining Murray State’s Town & Gown program, please contact Jennifer Robertson at 270-809-3924 or jrobertson38@murraystate.edu or visit murraystate.edu/townandgown.