‘Great American Variety Show’ to be held July 4 in Barrie Park

In celebration of America’s Independence Day holiday the Fort Atkinson Community Band will perform a concert in Fort Atkinson’s Barrie Park.

The performance will be made from the band shell Monday, July 4, at 7:30 p.m. 

The theme of the musical program is “Great American Variety Show,” Band Director Wayne Crook noted in a recent news release.

According to the release, opening the program will be the presentation of colors by a color guard unit of veterans representing Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 409, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1879, American Legend, Post 166. 

The Ukrainian Nation Anthem will be performed followed by the Star Spangled Banner. 

Trumpeter Jim Jackson will perform “Taps.”  

“March of the Armed Forces” will salute all men and women who served their country in the armed forces, the release stated. 

In addition, special guests will include a vocal octet organized by Jim Athas. 

“The vocal group will perform two arrangements dating back to the ‘swing’ era of the 1930’s and 40’s, with band accompaniment.  Included are the tunes ‘I’ll Never Smile Again’ and ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (if it ain’t got that swing).’  The vocal octet will perform ‘From Sea To Shining Sea,’ with the band for the program finale. Al Kent will perform the solo ‘Danny Boy’ on the baritone horn with band accompaniment.”  

There is no admission charge and chairs are provided with many concert-goers bringing a lawn chair for their listening comfort. Again this year there is no ice cream social due to the COVID-19 issues. If inclement weather occurs, the concert will be canceled, the release noted. 

Fort Atkinson Community Band Director Wayne Crook welcomes concert-goers during last year’s Fourth of July celebratory event in Barrie Park. File photo/Kim McDarison. 

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