West Point Concert Band returns to Valley Stream

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After a five-year absence, the West Point Concert Band will return to Valley Stream, on Aug. 21 at 8 p.m. for a free concert, open to the public, as a part of the Village of Valley Stream’s Summerfest ‘19.

In this outdoor show, located at the Village Green Bandshell, the audience can expect to see military marches, fanfares, ragtime, Broadway pieces and some original pieces.

“The West Point Concert Band is a special event in Valley Stream because this fine group of musicians symbolizes the great service, dignity and history of West Point,” Mayor Ed Fare said. “These highly accomplished active-duty soldiers and musicians are among the finest performing groups in the world, and I consider it a great privilege that they have agreed to once again perform right here in Valley Stream.”

The West Point Concert Band is the oldest continually serving band in the Army, founded on the grounds of the United States Military Academy on June 8, 1817. Before that, members of the band were part of continental army units at West Point during the time of the American Revolution.

“The band is made up of some of the finest musicians in the country,” said Chrissy Rivers, staff sargeant for the West Point Concert Band. “Our motto is to educate, train and inspire people, while bringing them together for music.”

At this year’s concert, the audience can expect to see lyrics on a silver screen, as they listen to military marches with an unexpected twist, contemporary and classic wind band repertoire, and a selection of songs from Broadway as well.

“The West Point Band is in high demand across the country,” Fare added. “The last time we hosted them in Valley Stream was in 2012, but I remember attending West Point concerts on the Village Green as a young child. For me it’s a wonderful tradition, and I hope it will become the same for all Valley Streamers!”