Town & Gown Community Band and Chorale present July 4 concert
By Jennifer Robertson | Jun 24, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. — The Murray State University Town & Gown Community Band and Chorale will present a free Independence Day concert as part of Murray’s annual Freedom Fest celebration on Saturday, July 4, at 7 p.m. inside Lovett Auditorium on Murray State’s campus. The concert is free and open to the public.
This year's performance holds special significance as the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking a historic milestone in American history. Audience members can enjoy an evening of patriotic music, historical reflections and community spirit in the air-conditioned comfort of Lovett Auditorium.
Dr. Bradley Almquist, Murray State professor of music and director of choral activities, will conduct the Community Chorale. Dr. Ashley Shoupe, Murray State assistant professor of music and assistant director of bands, will conduct the Community Band.
“As I was growing up, every small town celebrated Independence Day with picnics, parades and concerts, concluding with fireworks, sometimes as a community and other times in our own backyards,” said Almquist. “We would gather at the town center. In the gazebo, a brass band would be playing folk songs, marches and patriotic songs. It is that Norman Rockwell-style American tradition that we bring to Murray. As our nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this concert offers an opportunity to reflect on our shared history, honor the ideals that have shaped our country and look ahead with hope for the future.”
“As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this concert reminds us of the enduring values of unity, service and civic engagement that continue to strengthen our nation,” said Dr. Tina Bernot, assistant vice president of Advancement. “The Town & Gown Community Band and Chorale exemplifies the power of partnership between Murray State University and the communities we serve, bringing people together through a shared commitment to excellence and the arts. This collaboration reflects what can be accomplished when a university and its community work together for the greater good.”
“What a wonderful way to celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th anniversary by spending an evening with the Town & Gown Community Band and Chorale, led by Dr. Ashley Shoupe and Dr. Bradley Almquist,” said Jennifer Robertson, coordinator of the Town & Gown Partnership Program. “These ensembles are made up entirely of volunteers, including high school students, Murray State students, employees and community members, who dedicate countless hours to creating beautiful music for everyone to enjoy. Their talent and commitment are truly inspiring, and this concert is a celebration of both our nation's heritage and the spirit of community that makes Murray such a special place. We’re also deeply grateful to our Town & Gown partners for their continued support in making events like this possible.”
The Town & Gown Partnership is an ongoing collaboration between Murray State University and the surrounding community that aims to enhance the quality of living and learning for everyone in the region. Town & Gown Partners include leaders from Murray State University administration and student government, local and state government, industry, small businesses, banking, health care providers and other community organizations. Membership fees help fund community projects and events such as these summer concerts. For more information about the Town & Gown Partnership, visit murraystate.edu/townandgown.
For more information about how a business or organization can join Murray State's Town & Gown program, please contact Jennifer Robertson at 270-809-3924 or jrobertson38@murraystate.edu.
For a full schedule of Freedom Fest activities, visit tourmurray.com/freedomfest.