FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jenni Shrum,
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
(405) 231-0145
jenni@okcphil.org
“A stirring evening of orchestral music celebrates the people, ideals, and musical traditions that have shaped the American story”
Oklahoma City, OK – The Oklahoma City Philharmonic invites audiences to come together for a powerful musical celebration of our nation with America the Beautiful: A 250 Celebration, performed Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall. Led by OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the special evening will also feature artist Marat Gabdullin on electric guitar, adding an electrifying dimension to this celebration of America’s rich and diverse musical story.
Presented as part of the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, this special concert will bring the community together through the extraordinary power of live orchestral music. Led by OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the evening will honor America’s rich history, diverse voices and enduring spirit while looking with optimism toward the nation’s future.
“Growing up in Germany, I was always completely fascinated by America. But it wasn’t until I was 18 that we could afford to have me come over. Since then, I have made America my home and couldn’t imagine ever living anywhere else,” said Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate. “Americans are still the most generous, creative, and free-thinking people. And we are celebrating that, 250 years: our courage and humanity, our humor and trust in God, through music. Through symphonic music that offers a moment of introspection and joy, the magnificent sounds of a symphony orchestra. Right in the middle of Oklahoma City at the Civic Center.”
America the Beautiful: A 250 Celebration will showcase music that captures the richness of the American experience, from sweeping orchestral works and beloved patriotic traditions to music reflecting the creativity, courage and cultural diversity that have defined generations of Americans.
More than a commemoration, the concert is designed as a shared community experience. Through music, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic will explore themes of freedom, resilience, hope and unity, offering audiences an opportunity to celebrate the nation’s milestone anniversary together.
“America’s 250th anniversary is an important moment to celebrate our shared history while also looking forward,” said Executive Director Brent Hart. “As Oklahoma City’s orchestra, we are proud to create an experience where our community can gather, reflect and celebrate through music.”
CONCERT DETAILS:
America the Beautiful: A 250 Celebration
Oklahoma City Philharmonic
Alexander Mickelthwate, Music Director
Marat Gabdullin, Electric Guitar
Saturday, September 19, 2026
7:30 p.m.
Civic Center Music Hall
201 N. Walker Ave., Oklahoma City
Pre-concert talk with Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate begins at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are available for purchase at tickets@okcphil.org or by calling (405) 842-5387.
SPECIAL GUEST:
Marat Gabdullin – born in Russia, today Marat Gabdullin is one of the foremost violinists of Oklahoma. As Honorary Concertmaster of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Concertmaster of the Lawton and Norman Philharmonic, Dr. Gabdullin is involved in nearly every music event around the state of Oklahoma, performing with orchestras and chamber ensembles. An award-winning video producer, Dr. Gabdullin also regularly records for movie productions. Marat Gabdullin has won many international competitions and also holds a gold medal of the Delphic Games. In addition to his career as a classical violinist, Marat is also an entrepreneur and inventor. He is a founder of the Volta Strings Inc. and also holds a patent for his invention of a new type of hybrid electric violin called “Violinatron”.
About the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
Founded in 1988, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic has inspired audiences for more than three decades through exceptional orchestral performances, innovative programming and meaningful community engagement. Under the direction of Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the orchestra presents Classics, The Chickasaw Nation Pops, Discovery Family Concerts and a wide range of educational and community performances. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s mission is to provide musical experiences that inspire, connect, and strengthen our community, ensuring the transformative power of music is accessible to everyone. For more information, contact us at okcphil.org, 501 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
For more information, visit okcphil.org.
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