Every year at the band's annual Pre-Fourth of July Patriotic Celebration, we focus on some aspect of the meanings and moments behind Independence Day – its symbols, documents, heroes, and the like. This year, we turn our attention backwards in history to one of our nation's greatest presidents, Abraham Lincoln, and his own words. Our 16th President is immortalized by American composer Aaron Copland in the Lincoln Portrait with music to set and carry the mood of those words. We'll also hear selections from many other pieces celebrating Lincoln and his times, including John Williams' themes from Steven Spielberg’s movie "Lincoln." And, of course, we’ll salute our military service personnel and their spouses, past and present, who have helped secure our freedom and liberty through all the years. This is a free event.