Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra: America Turns 250
Sat, May 16 , 2026 • 7:30pm
6601 West College Drive, Palos Heights, IL 60463
IPO celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with music by Joan Tower, Jessie Montgomery, John Philip Sousa and Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait.
The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s “America Turns 250: A Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of America in Music” is a special concert event marking the United States’ Semiquincentennial by honoring the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Presented as the season finale of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s 48th season, this performance takes place at Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, IL on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 7:30 PM. The program features a vibrant selection of American-themed works, including compositions by Joan Tower and Jessie Montgomery alongside iconic marches by John Philip Sousa, and concludes with Aaron Copland’s celebrated Lincoln Portrait, reflecting on the nation’s heritage through music.
This ticketed concert blends patriotic spirit with artistic excellence, showcasing the orchestra’s commitment to presenting culturally meaningful performances for the Chicago Southland community. Under the baton of Maestro Stilian Kirov, the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra uses this Semiquincentennial celebration to both honor American musical traditions and engage audiences in a communal experience of reflection and celebration as part of the larger Illinois America 250 statewide series of events commemorating this historic milestone.