The Erie Philharmonic is bringing music to communities across Northwest Pennsylvania this July with a free summer concert series celebrating America’s 250th Birthday. From a star-spangled pops spectacular led by Music Director Daniel Meyer to special performances for young (and the young at heart!) featuring the Erie Phil Octet and the return of the beloved Erie Phil Brass Ensemble, audiences of all ages are invited to enjoy free live music under the summer sky.
The series features ten free performances in Erie, North East, Corry, Edinboro, Meadville, Fairview, and Conneaut Lake. Many events will also include family activities, local vendors, and community partners.
“Music brings people together, and that’s exactly what this summer series is all about,” said Music Director Daniel Meyer. “As we celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, we will honor our nation’s musical traditions while creating opportunities for neighbors and visitors alike across the region to gather, connect, and experience the harmony of live music together.”
The summer season begins with Daniel Meyer’s Patriotic Pops, a program featuring Sousa marches, an Armed Forces Salute, music from John Williams, Broadway favorites, selections by Aaron Copland and more. The month-long tour then continues with a special family concert led by Concertmaster Emeritus Ken Johnston featuring Peter and the Wolf and other animal-themed favorites. It concludes with the return of the Erie Phil Brass Ensemble under the direction of Principal Tuba Ken Heinlein with an All-American favorites and some unexpected gems.
“Summer means it’s time for the Erie Phil to hit the road,” said Executive Director Bobby Pape. “From Bayview Park to Conneaut Lake, these concerts showcase not just incredible music—they highlight the unique character of the towns, parks, and gathering places that make Northwest Pennsylvania a great place to live, work, visit and play.”
DANIEL MEYER’S PATRIOTIC POPS
Maestro Meyer leads a celebration of American tradition and innovation featuring Sousa marches, John Williams favorites, Broadway classics, and the enduring music of Aaron Copland.
July 4 • Bayview Park, Erie
1:00 PM Opening Act: Josh Travis
2:30 PM Erie Philharmonic
July 8 • Gibson Park, North East
7:00 PM Erie Philharmonic
July 9 • Downtown Park, Corry
6:30 PM Opening Act: Three Way Street
7:30 PM Erie Philharmonic
July 10 • PennWest University, Edinboro
6:30 PM Opening Act: Three Way Street
7:30 PM Erie Philharmonic
July 11 • Diamond Park, Meadville
7:00 PM Erie Philharmonic
ERIE PHIL FAMILY CONCERT
Concertmaster Emeritus Ken Johnston returns to lead the Erie Phil Octet in an animal-themed musical adventure featuring Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and other favorites inspired by the animal kingdom. Interactive music and craft activities will be available for families and children.
July 22 • Gibson Park, North East
7:00 PM Erie Phil Octet
Special activities with community partners including the Erie Zoo and expERIEnce Children’s Museum.
July 23 • McLane Church, Edinboro
5:00 PM Family Activities and Community Cookout
6:30 PM Erie Phil Octet
ERIE PHIL BRASS ENSEMBLE
Back by popular demand, Ken Heinlein leads one of the Philharmonic’s most beloved summer traditions with patriotic favorites, symphonic classics, and audience-pleasing pops selections.
July 27 • Pleasant Ridge Park, Fairview
7:00 PM Brass Ensemble
July 29 • Gibson Park, North East
7:00 PM Brass Ensemble
July 30 • Ice House Park, Conneaut Lake
7:00 PM Brass Ensemble
All performances are free and open to the public. Programs are subject to change and rain locations will be announced as needed.
