For Charles Bennett, this is a labor of love. For Whittier residents, it will be a chance to hear the historic Wurlitzer organ played by a world-class pianist and to hear an esteemed vocalist (and Whittier High alumnus) sing America’s songlist.
Bennett, historian of the Whittier High School Alumni Association, and a member of the Cardinals’ Class of 2007,
“The Patriotic Concert has been a passion project of mine for literally years, in that it combines my interests in American history and Wurlitzer organ music,” he said. “It’s part of an effort by the alumni association to have more concerts on the Wurlitzer Organ, which was installed in 2017 after generous donations by Bill Wood and Dave Harris. I think it will be a relaxing way to celebrate America’s history and music.”
The concert is set for 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at the Vic Lopez Auditorium of Whittier High, 12417 Philadelphia St., Whittier. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children and youth, and free for current Whittier High School students.
Headliners include pianist Robert York, who will perform Sousa marches, Joplin rag and movie music medleys on the school’s massive and historic Wurlitzer Organ, built in 1926, and vocalist Josè Luis Maldonado, himself a 2007 Whittier High alumnus.
“I am excited to hear our alumnus Joe Maldonado singing in our beloved auditorium,” said teacher Sarah Peel. “The opportunity to hear him sing in person and in that space, feels special.”
The award-winning baritone is set to sing solos such as “Ol’ Man River,” “Shenandoah,” and compositions written for Maldonado.
For Peel, a fourth-generation Whittierite, Fourth of July celebrations throughout the years include concerts at local parks to fireworks at York Field.
“The opportunity to celebrate with The Wurlitzer Organ, wonderful alumni alongside our community, here at the auditorium, is going to be a wonderful experience,” she said.
Peel will also participate in the program, reading the poetry of John Greenleaf Whittier, joining community leaders and alumni association officials in the recitations. Mayor James Becerra will be among those reading the Declaration of Independence.
Rob West, association president, will lead Boy Scout troops 54 and 438 as well as Girl Scout troop 4981 in a flag ceremony.
For Bennett, the day will be about community, an opportunity for people to come together, celebrate and interact.
“It’s about reflection. Reflection on 250 years of American history,” he said. “Reflection on the ideas of natural rights in the Declaration that have been debated here and around the world. Reflection on grievances against the king and British government that were serious enough to justify a revolution.”And it’s about music.
“Even when it’s not the 250th, I like playing patriotic songs on my computer or my boom box on major American holidays,” he added.
Tickets to the concert and singalong are available online at whittierhighalumni.org through Tuesday, June 23, or at the door in cash on June 27.