Town and Gown - 1
MURRAY, Ky. – The Murray State University Town & Gown Community Band will present two free concerts this summer.
The first concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 3 at the Rotary Amphitheater located in Central Park on Gil Hopson Drive in Murray. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held in Lovett Auditorium located on Murray State’s campus.
The second summer concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 4 inside Lovett Auditorium. The Town & Gown Community Chorale will join the Community Band for the July 4 concert.
For the June 3 concert, the Town & Gown Community Band, which is comprised of about 80 members from both Murray State and the community, will be conducted by Dr. Ashley Shoupe, Murray State assistant director of bands. Guests at the June 3 concert will enjoy a dynamic and engaging program featuring selections such as “Songs of Old Kentucky” by Brant Karrick, a tribute to the region’s musical roots, and the bold and expressive “To Be Vivid Stars” by Satoshi Yagisawa.
The Murray Bank Ice Cream Machine will be in Central Park from 7-7:30 p.m. on June 3, offering a sweet treat to kick off the evening. The public is welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets to the amphitheater.
For the July 4th Freedom Fest Concert, Dr. Bradley Almquist, Murray State professor of music, will conduct the Community Chorale, and Dr. Ashley Shoupe will again conduct the Community Band. Audience members can relax in the air-conditioned comfort of the recently renovated Lovett Auditorium as they enjoy holiday favorites performed by both the band and chorale, including traditional patriotic music, music from American folk traditions and African American spirituals.
“There’s nothing quite like the sounds of music filling the summer air, and we are thrilled to welcome back our incredible Town & Gown Community Band and Chorale. Their time, talent and commitment bring so much life to our community, and we are deeply grateful to the generous individuals and organizations who support Murray State Town & Gown and make experiences like this possible,” said Jennifer Robertson, coordinator of the Town & Gown Community Partnership program. “These performances are a true celebration of community spirit — open to everyone — and reflect the heart of what Town & Gown represents: unity, collaboration and the joy of shared traditions. We invite you to join us this summer for an unforgettable season of music, fellowship and gratitude.”
Both concerts are free, and the public is cordially invited to attend.
The Chorale will begin rehearsals for the July 4 concert on June 2 at 6:30 p.m. in Room 314 of the Price Doyle Fine Arts Building. No audition is required to join the chorale but a love of singing. Music is provided and fun is encouraged. For more information, please contact Dr. Bradley Almquist at balmquist@murraystate.edu.
The Town & Gown Partnership is an ongoing collaboration between Murray State University and the surrounding community that aims to enhance the quality of living and learning for everyone in the community. Town & Gown Partners include leaders from Murray State University administration and student government, local and state government, industry, small business, banking, health care providers and other community organizations. Membership fees help fund community projects and events such as these summer concerts. For more information about joining Murray State’s Town & Gown program, please contact Jennifer Robertson at 270-809-3924 or jrobertson38@murraystate.edu,