About ‘America at 250’
The Nittany Valley Symphony’s spring concert will celebrate the contributions of American composers that came to define the country’s collective sound.
“American music has never been defined by a single tradition, but by a vibrant blend of styles and art forms,” Farrand said. “I created ‘America at 250’ to celebrate, in this anniversary year, the remarkable range of composers and genres in the 20th century that have defined American music.”
The “America at 250” program will include:
- Selections from the songbooks of Cole Porter and Irving Berlin
- “Poem” (1944), William Grant Still
- Highlights from “Jurassic Park,” John Williams, arranged by Calvin Custer
- “On the Waterfront” Symphonic Suite (1955), Leonard Bernstein
- “Candide” Overture, Bernstein
“I think it will appeal to those that regularly attend symphonic concerts, as well as those who might be familiar with some of the music but have not attended a live orchestral event,” Farrand said.
About the Nittany Valley Symphony
The orchestra is under the direction of Farrand, with executive director Rebecca Richards. Established in 1967 as a nonprofit organization, the Nittany Valley Symphony aims to inspire and enrich State College’s diverse community through live concerts of the highest-caliber symphonic music performed by professional and amateur musicians.
“As we approach our 60th anniversary season, we have been deeply moved by the support from our community, whose enthusiasm sustains our work,” said Richards, who was named the organization’s executive director in June 2025. “I look forward to sharing the power and beauty of ‘America at 250’ — a program that promises to celebrate both our nation’s story and its musical history.”
Parking details
Parking is $5.60 per vehicle when reserved in advance or $10 starting at midnight on the day of the performance. Reservations can be made until 10 a.m. on the day of the performance or until reservations have sold out. Parking is assigned for a deck near the event and will be searchable by that event.
Visit ParkWhiz online to reserve parking. Visit Parking online for more details about parking.
Accessibility services
Patrons with limited mobility may be dropped off in front of Eisenhower Auditorium at the Eisenhower Road pull-off near the intersection with Shortlidge Road. A wheelchair is available to assist patrons from the drop-off area to their seats by calling 814‑863‑2335 upon arrival.
ADA-accessible parking spaces are available on all levels of the Eisenhower deck and in the Yellow F surface lot across Eisenhower Road from the deck. ADA-accessible parking is also available in the lot between Eisenhower Road and Tyson Building. State-issued disability parking placards are required for access to the ADA-accessible parking spaces.
Eisenhower Auditorium is certified by KultureCity as a sensory-friendly venue. Upon request, patrons can visit a quiet space on the lounge level; or sign out a variety of items to accommodate your visit, including noise-reducing earmuffs, anti-strobe glasses, lap pads and fidget toys.
Visit Accessibility online to learn more about the services available at Eisenhower Auditorium.
Acknowledgments
Happy Valley Adventure Bureau is sponsoring the performance.
Find us
Email Nittany Valley Symphony Executive Director Rebecca Richards at ed@nvs.org to request an interview. Learn more at Nittany Valley Symphony.