June 16, 2009
PNC Bank to Sponsor Fireworks Display at The Maryland Symphony Orchestra’s Salute to Independence Concert

Hagerstown, MD—The Maryland Symphony Orchestra has announced that PNC Bank will be the exclusive sponsor of the fireworks display presented during the MSO’s annual Salute to Independence concert on Saturday, July 4 at Antietam National Battlefield near Sharpsburg, MD.  The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. 

“We are very pleased that PNC Bank has joined us this year as a major sponsor of an event that has become one of Maryland’s biggest and most patriotic events,” says Andrew Kipe, executive director of the MSO.  “The PNC Bank Fireworks Display promises to be an incredible finale to our celebration of America’s birthday.”

This year marks the 24th time that the MSO has partnered with the National Park Service to bring this concert to the citizens of Washington County and beyond.  Each year more than 35,000 concert-goers converge upon the historic battlefield to spend time with family and friends while listening to the region’s premier professional orchestra performing such musical favorites as John Phillip Sousa’s The Liberty Bell and Stars and Stripes Forever marches, Aaron Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. 

“The Maryland Symphony Orchestra has such a unique, high quality event with the Salute to Independence.  There is no better way to experience Independence Day—an inspirational concert, a spectacular fireworks display, all while surrounded by fellow Americans on hallowed ground,” says PNC Regional President Gordon M. Cooley.  “I am proud that PNC Bank was able to support this year’s program—support that started with our predecessor, Home Federal Savings Bank, so many years ago. I’m looking forward to being there.”