Celebrate America – The Chase Picnic Pops Your Cork

Classical music is normally a dressup affair so you can imagine what happens when you take the Grand Rapids Symphony musicians and their clad-in-black fans to the grassy slopes of Cannonsburg.  Yep, that’s right, they really know how to let their hair down in the open air.

The 15^th season of the Picnic Pops kicks off with a patriotic themed show that is packed with something for everyone.  The tunes will range from the traditional Americana to a 50^th anniversary tribute to Diana Ross.  In addition, Broadway veterans Soprano Jessica Hendy and baritone Christopher Johnstone sing show tunes from Westside Story, Ragtime, Wicked and Susan Boyles’favorite Broadway show,  Les Miserables.

But this year’s opening Pops event is really about the luck of good timing.  

The Celebrate America program will welcome guest conductor Steven Reineke, the newly appointed music director of the New York Pops. Reineke arrives in West Michigan just days after conducting the New York Pops for the Macy’s Fourth of July Spectacular broadcast on national television.  

Reineke also will be conducting his very moving “Medley for World Peace,” a musical arrangement he created for the Beijing Olympics. “This piece has tune after tune dedicated to peace, love, hope and brotherhood,” says Reineke.

One great characteristic of this event that stands heads and shoulders above other outdoor music venues where $6 will get you a domestic draft beer, the Picnic Pops encourages you to bring your favorite alcoholic bubbly.  The venue does not sell alcohol so guests are encouraged to pack a deluxe picnic basket.  If you forget your dinner, Cannonsburg has grilled items and soft drinks for purchase.

For a complete line up of the summer season including activities for families with kids, please visit the GRSO website.

Admission: $14 – $41. (See their website for complete ticket seating options)