IN PANAMA

Celebrating July 4

07-06-2009 | DAVID YOUNG

Americans and Panamanians alike celebrated the US Independence Day with a BBQ at Amador and a concert at the National Theater

Panama Star PANAMA. The Symphony of the Americas Orchestra led by the renowned Panamanian born conductor, Dr James Broooks-Bruzzese, capped its tour of Panama on the weekend with a concert before a full house at the National Theatre to celebrate July 4, American Independence Day.

The Florida based orchestra had given concerts and instructional performances, and on July 4, included members of the National Symphony Orchestra of Panama.

The invitees, including ambassadors from a number of countries, were welcomed at the door by their host, American Ambassador Barbara J. Stepenson and her husband Matthew Furbush.

They were entertained with a fast moving blend of Broadway musicals, rousing Sousa marches, and music by Irving Berlin, E.E. Bagley and Leroy Anderson.

Some of the loudest applause was reserved for an outstanding performance of the 3rd movement of Panama composer Eduardo Charpentier’s Concerto for Oboe and orchestra.

The oboe part was masterfully played by Juan Castillo.

Earlier in the day July 4 was celebrated with a different flavor at the Balboa Yacht Club in Amador.

Veterans of Foreign Wars, families and supporters gathered throughout the afternoon for a sumptuous barbecue, complete with mom’s apple pie, bingo, music and talk of old times.

A day to be remembered.