July 3, 2012 performance of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Park.

With fire works blazing sparkling color and cannons booming, the final Summer Pops concert by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (a Knight Arts grantee) ignited patriotic spirit on the eve of July 4th.  The National Anthem lyric, “And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air,” was particularly felt by the crowd in Symphony Park.

Albert-George Schram led the Symphony in a patriotic program that featured “the Armed Forces Salute,” Sousa’s “Liberty Bell March” and Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” The program was not all serious, however, Schram enticed the audience to boogie to the Soul Bossa Nova from Shagadelic Suite and sing along to hits like “When the Saints go marching in,” “My Girl” and “Yankee Doodle.”

A relaxed, party atmosphere pervaded Tuesday night’s performance. Children ran around waving sparklers and danced their hearts out or alternatively cried their hearts out, depending on the child and his or her tolerance of fireworks. It is clear Queen City residents enjoy this event as much for the music as the opportunity to catch up with friends. Bottom line: don’t expect a serious crowd intent on catching every key change, staccato rhythm or crescendo.

The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra can next be heard on September 14th and 15th at the Belk Theater performing the Music of Billy Joel featuring Michael Cavanaugh. The Classics Concert series begins September 21st. Tickets for individual concerts go on sale in August; learn more about subscriptions at www.charlottesymphony.org/Tickets.asp. Symphony Park: 4400 Sharon Rd., Charlotte Charlotte Symphony Orchestra: 301 S. Tryon St., suite 1700; 704-972-2003; www.charlottesymphony.org