American Tapestry at Barnstable Performing Arts Center

The concert opens with Americans We, a quick-moving march dedicated to “all of us,” by composer Henry Fillmore, who was known for his determination to spread happiness through music. Now, that’s a goal that perfectly aligns with the mission of the CCCB! Next up, the Band pays tribute to Native American culture, with the haunting and beautiful selection, The Gathering of Eagles, the work of Squamish First Nation songwriter Bob Baker, arranged for concert band by Robert Buckley.

From there, the Band will take listeners on a musical journey, highlighting some of the many cultural influences on the music we claim as American, with selections ranging from the work of the legendary jazz composer, Duke Ellington, to the work of the contemporary Latina composer, Michele Fernández. Stopovers include original Irish American music—A Tiny Irish Cottage, A Giant Irish Family, 1964, by the CCCB’s own resident composer, Mike Donovan, and Saint Louis Blues March, a mash-up of march music and a beloved blues tune, composed by Father of the Blues, W.C. Handy, and arranged by Jerry Gray and Perry Burgett.

The lively American Overture by Joseph Willcox Jenkins will open the second half of the program. But don’t try to name that tune—the various motifs in the piece sound like folk tunes, but the composer employed no direct quotes. After quick switch between a Ukrainian dance tune, a Joplin rag, and a little bit of bossa nova, the Band performs a couple of tunes you surely can name: Treasure, made famous by Bruno Mars, and the Motown favorite, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.

American Tapestry is presented free of charge by the musical volunteers of the Cape Cod Concert Band, a 52-piece wind and percussion ensemble performing under the direction of Tom Borning. The CCCB is supported by audience donations, business sponsors, and a grant from the Cape Cod Melody Tent.

Time: 14:00 - 15:50