Free “American Music Celebration” concert set for May 7 at Winyah Auditorium

The Georgetown Theatre Orchestra will help mark the nation’s 250th anniversary with a free patriotic concert on Thursday, May 7 at 7 p at the Winyah Auditorium.

Now in its ninth season, the all-volunteer community orchestra will perform American favorites by composers including William Billings, F.W. Meacham, George M. Cohan, Richard Rodgers, John Philip Sousa and John Williams.

Founder and conductor Stanton Earnhart said theatre orchestras have traditionally differed from symphonic ensembles because they may not always have every musician a score calls for. Instead, they adapt—rewriting parts when needed so the music still shines.

“While we have a full complement of saxophones, we do not have a full section of strings,” Earnhart said. “I’ve rewritten those parts for our keyboardist, and it still provides a rich, full sound.”

What began with just eight musicians has grown into an ensemble of about 30 players—all with a shared love of making music in the community.

“We have many accomplished musicians, with some who come from as far away as Myrtle Beach to perform with us. We have three high school students, along with attorneys, teachers and retirees,” Earnhart said. “I enjoy writing music for these concerts, and it allows us to showcase the talents of our musicians.” 

Earnhart has also composed the encores for the spring performance. His wife, Eileen—a retired choral teacher—plays piano with the orchestra.

The orchestra presents two concerts each year, including a holiday-themed program in December. Earnhart said he’s often asked why the group doesn’t perform on the Fourth of July, but many musicians also play with other bands and aren’t always available on that date.

Their motto is “Playing is fun,” Earnhart said.

What to know: Thursday, May 7, 7 pm at Winyah Auditorium.

Admission is free with no assigned seating; donations are welcome to help offset the cost of music.