America 250th: Songs of Patriotism, Praise, and Protest

Join us for a free concert!
About the show:

America’s democracy is based upon the freedoms of speech and religion as part of its cornerstone. This program presents Patriotism, Praise, and Protest as part of the vital fabric that weaves our differences into our distinct strength. Key hymns, noble anthems of patriotism, and tunes of solidarity as well as resistance make this a worthy program celebrating our union. This unique sound is provided by Alex Prizgintas and his amplified cello.

Classically trained, Alex employs non-classical tools like distortion, delay, and the iconic “wah-wah” guitar pedals symbolic of 1960s Rock n’ Roll bands--all in conjunction with a looping station. Equally comfortable with intimate and stadium settings, Alex is able to craft his own wall-of-sound through his 1,000 watt amp. Accompanied by a narration that reveal some of the back stories of baroque, jazz, folk, and Rock n’ Roll classics, he immerses his audience in a journey through musical history.
About the Presenter: A graduate of Marist College with degrees in Hudson River Valley History and Public Administration, Alex Prizgintas has been published in the Hudson River Valley Review, New York Archives Magazine, and Orange County Historical Society Journal on topics including Hudson River railroad history, Orange County’s dairy farming history, and the region’s early settlers. He serves as president of the Woodbury Historical Society and town historian of Woodbury in Orange County, New York.