Long Island Philharmonic performs under the stars

What used to be a summer venue for the New York Philharmonic is now an opportunity for the Long Island Philharmonic, founded by Harry Chapin, to perform for Long Islanders. The Philharmonic presents the Islip Arts Council’s annual free concert, a summertime ritual for music lovers, on Saturday, July 16, at 8 p.m., at the Heckscher Park stage in East Islip.
Maestro David Stewart Wiley, music director and conductor, leads the orchestra in a special concert honoring those who serve in our Armed Forces now and recognizing and remembering those who served in the past.
The patriotic program features selections from beloved American composers, including “When Johnny Comes Marching Home,” Williams’ “Theme from Born on the Fourth of July,” Bernstein’s “Overture to Candide,” Gershwin’s “An American in Paris,” Ellington’s “Duke Ellington Fantasy,” along with Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” and Sousa’s “The Stars & Stripes Forever.” A spectacular display of fireworks will light up the night sky following the concert’s rousing finale,.
As always, concertgoers are urged to arrive early to this popular event. Many visitors bring family and friends for picnicking throughout the day. Admission is free.
The Philharmonic will continues its free summer concert series on Friday, Aug. 12, at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre at Eisenhower Park.