One week from today (Sept. 12), a commemoration begins for the song most-identified with America. It’s the bicentennial of the Star-Spangled Banner and Iowans are getting ready for the nationwide observance. IPR’s Rick Fredericksen has the story, with a technical assist from John Pemble.
Star-Spangled Birthday
1 of
Joseph Giunta conducts the Des Moines Symphony
John Pemble / Iowa Public Radio
2 of
The Des Moines Roosevelt High School Band and director Treg Marcellus
Rick Fredericksen / Iowa Public Radio
3 of
About 200 young muscians rehearse the national anthem
Rick Fredericksen / Iowa Public Radio
4 of
The band director runs a tight ship in preparation for the Sept. 12th performance
Rick Fredericksen / Iowa Public Radio
5 of
Roosevelt band members. Practice starts at 7:30 a.m.
Rick Fredericksen / Iowa Public Radio
6 of
Maestro Giunta takes the DM Symphony outdoors for the Independence Day concert
John Pemble / Iowa Public Radio