Con Brio presents two glorious, uplifting, at times somber, rousing, and patriotic concerts to celebrate our Nation’s 250th Birthday (1776-2026). These concerts feature a special program of All-American music with full orchestra and augmented brass section. Stars & Stripes Forever A choral celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday Featuring over 110 performers, with the Con Brio Chorus, the Con Brio Festival Orchestra, and with special guest Soprano and Tenor soloists, conducted by Dr. Chris Shepard on April 17, 2026 at 7 PM and April 19 2026 at 4 PM, Valley Regional High School, 256 Kelsey Hill Road, Deep River CT 06417. March The Stars & Stripes Forever, John Philip Sousa, USMC (orchestra) The National Anthem The Star-Spangled Banner, Smith, words Francis Scott Key, arr. Hayes (chorus and orchestra) The Testament of Freedom, Randall Thompson, words from Thomas Jefferson, (chorus and orchestra) I. A Summary View of the Rights of British America (1774) II. and III. Declaration of Causes and Necessity of Taking up Arms (July 6, 1775) IV. Letter to John Adams, (September 12, 1821) The Mansions of the Lord, Glennie-Smith, arr. Harlan & Rickets, words Wallace, (chorus and string orchestra) Battle Hymn of the Republic, Steffe, arr. Wilhousky, words […]