Torrential rains battered Spencer County throughout the day on Saturday, June 27, but within minutes of the Celebration Singers taking the Lincoln Amphitheatre stage, the sun decided to shine.
Perhaps it was an omen of a special evening to come.
A Salute to America 250 was the theme of this free concert, sponsored by the Spier Spencer Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
United States Eighth District Congressman Mark Messmer provided a welcome and opening remarks after the Sons of the American Revolution George Rogers Clark Chapter posted the colors.
Spencer County native and former opera singer Joyce Bolton sang a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem before Abraham Lincoln presenter Whit McMahan spoke of the influence the Declaration of Independence had on the 16th president.
Celebration Singers Director Gary Moeller took the podium to lead the multi-voiced choir in a litany of patriotic songs, starting with a tribute to each of the armed forces, during which veterans in the audience were asked to stand when their branch’s anthem was performed.
The singers also debuted “Thank You for the Blessings”, a specially commissioned arrangement in remembrance of the freedom seeking patriots who sacrificed blood and treasure to give birth to America 250 years ago.
The concert was followed by this season’s final performance of A Pioneer Song, which had been rained out Thursday night.
Both the Celebration Singers concert and the musical concluded with thunderous applause, and a standing ovation for the large cast of A Pioneer Song.
Featured Image: Costumed color guards help add some historical flair to the Salute to America 250 concert at Lincoln Amphitheatre this Saturday. Pictured are members of the Sons of the American Revolution George Rogers Clark Chapter standing at attention.
Congressman Mark Messmer offers opening remarks as members of the Celebration Singers prepare to honor America’s first 250 years in song.
– Photos by Kathy Tretter
