Foundation invites public to free RI Philharmonic concert

Posted

The Rhode Island Foundation is celebrating its 100th anniversary by inviting the public to a free concert by the Rhode Island Philharmonic at the Temple to Music in Roger Williams Park on Thursday, Aug. 18, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

“Community is at the heart of what we do. Community begins where people gather for shared experiences. We couldn’t think of a better place to celebrate our centennial than in one of the state’s best-loved spots,” said Neil Steinberg, the foundation’s president and CEO.

It will be the first time since 2004 that the Philharmonic has played in Roger Williams Park. The two-hour program will include rousing standards like the “Star-Spangled Banner” and the “1812 Overture” and fun favorites such as “Star Wars” and “Olympic Fanfare.”

“There will be a caravan of food trucks and room for thousands of music lovers on blankets and lawn chairs. It should be a spectacular evening,” Steinberg said.

Even though the event is free and open to the public, the foundation has arranged for Rhode Island Public Radio to broadcast the concert live on ripr.org or 88.1FM, 91.5FM, and 102.7FM.

The announcement comes as the foundation celebrates its centennial. Founded on June 13, 1916, with a $10,000 gift from industrialist Jesse Metcalf, the foundation’s assets have grown to nearly $800 million. Over the past five years, the foundation has awarded more than $165 million in grants.

The centerpiece of the centennial celebration is a $10 million campaign to restore Roger Williams Park. The work will include improvements to the park’s entrances, new signage, expanded walkways and bicycle paths, and repairs to the Museum of Natural History, the Bandstand, the Casino, and the Temple to Music.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of non-profit organizations in Rhode Island. In 2015, the foundation awarded $41.5 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities. Through leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information about the concert or the campaign, visit rifoundation.org.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here