PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 21, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- An exciting, Philadelphia tradition continues this year when Peter Nero and the Philly Pops perform along with the Philadelphia Boys Choir and Chorale at the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing followed by a fireworks extravaganza. The perfect close to the summer, this FREE event begins at 5 p.m. on Monday, September 1 when guests can enjoy great family entertainment at the Great Plaza on Columbus Boulevard at Chestnut Street.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. with an exciting addition to this year's event, a performance from the Philadelphia Boys Choir and Chorale. Founder and Artistic Director Dr. Robert Hamilton is pleased to have his "Ambassadors of Song" participate in this Philadelphia Labor Day tradition. The 110-member Choir typically holds over 40 performances in the Delaware Valley each concert season, as well as special concerts like this one for area businesses and organizations. Internationally, the Choir singers have served as cultural ambassadors for the City of Philadelphia, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Nation, providing foreign hosts with a fresh approach to the image of American youth and an appreciation for new American music. The Boys will take the stage from 5pm-6pm with a medley of patriotic songs, spirituals, and tunes from your favorite animated movies.
Peter Nero and the Philly Pops will take the stage at 6pm with a musical salute to America's ethnic diversity and a stirring tribute to the United States Armed Forces. The program will include popular music from Broadway, opera, and film and will feature tenor Gioacchino Lauro LiVigni singing Puccini's Nessun Dorma. Mr. Nero and The Pops will perform the first set from 6-7 p.m. with a second set beginning at 7:35 p.m.
For the finale, the Philadelphia Boys Choir and Peter Nero and the Philly Pops join forces for a unique musical presentation. The festivities culminate with dazzling Fireworks set to the 1812 Overture on the Delaware River at 8pm. This event is free to the public due to the generous support of Independence Blue Cross.
Peter Nero, a virtuoso pianist, has built an impressive career as a Pops conductor, arranger, and composer. His solid musicianship, innovative programming, and warm, informal stage presence have won him a loyal and enthusiastic audience. He will return to the Labor Day celebration at Penn's Landing for the 3rd year, continuing a true Philadelphia tradition.
Known as America's POPS orchestra, The POPS has won great acclaim throughout the nation with their special blend of Broadway, blues, jazz, and swing. Celebrating his 25th year as a music director, Peter Nero is a national treasure with more than 67 recordings, two Grammy Awards, ten Grammy nominations and an Emmy Award. The Buffalo News recently hailed him as "One Cool Conductor!" For additional information about the POPS, call 215-546-6400.
Families are invited to come out early, starting at 5 p.m. to enjoy strolling Mummer musicians, patriotic face-painting and make and take crafts for the kids to enjoy. There will be several food and spirit vendors on site for parents to purchase dinner or enjoy a cocktail during the concert.
This FREE event is made possible by the generous sponsors: Independence Blue Cross, Pennsylvania Lottery, Commerce Bank, KYW 1060 AM, KYW TV 3, and the Delaware River Port Authority. To learn more about this and any other event at Penn's Landing, please call (215) 922-2FUN or visit www.pennslandingcorp.com. The Labor Day Concert and Fireworks is part of the 2003 Summer Season at Penn's Landing, presented by Independence Blue Cross.
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