Sounds of America—A Gift of Music for All
On June 27, 2026, the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes will bring something extraordinary to our region—a free outdoor symphony concert at Elmira’s beloved Eldridge Park. Sounds of America will be a joyful, open-air celebration of music, community, and the nation’s 250th anniversary—a gift from the OSFL to everyone who calls this region home.
For one magical evening, the park will transform into an outdoor concert hall, filled with the sounds of a full 58-piece orchestra performing by the lake. Families will spread picnic blankets on the grass, children will dance to familiar tunes, and the night will close with fireworks over the water. From Copland’s Lincoln Portrait to Ives’ Variations on America and favorite melodies from Broadway, film, and jazz, the program will showcase the depth and diversity of American music—from classical to contemporary, patriotic to playful.
Sounds of America embodies the OSFL’s mission to make live symphonic music accessible to all. Many schools today face budget cuts that limit exposure to the arts, leaving fewer opportunities for young people to experience orchestral music. This concert offers a way to bridge that gap—an open invitation to discover the beauty and excitement of a live symphony in a welcoming, familiar space.
Held in partnership with Seven Mountains Media and the organizers of the Eldridge Park Independence Day celebration, this concert will draw thousands of residents from across the Southern Tier and beyond. It’s an opportunity to unite the community through music, to celebrate who we are, and to remind us of the power of shared experiences.
But a concert of this scale—free and open to all—is only possible through community support. From funding the musicians to sound equipment and staging, your generosity makes this gift possible. With your support, this inaugural concert will be the spark of a new annual tradition.
If you believe in the power of music to inspire, connect, and uplift, please consider supporting Sounds of America today. Together, we can bring this incredible experience to life—because when we listen together, we are sound.
The OSFL is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 16-1482732.
Because of supporters like you, our free outdoor concert, Sounds of America—coming to Eldridge Park in Elmira next June 27th —is becoming possible. Beyond the one night, this concert is intended as the spark of a new annual tradition—a way for us all to gather, be uplifted by live symphonic music, and connect across the Finger Lakes region.
Thank you for believing in our mission, supporting live music, and helping us bring this community-wide gift to life.
Not ready to donate just yet? You can pledge now, and pay later.
The OSFL is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, EIN 16-1482732.
Become a Supporter of Sounds of America
Other Ways to Give
If you prefer to donate by check, please mail a check payable to the OSFL to PO Box 15, Corning NY 14830.
In addition, the Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes accepts gifts in many forms, including cash, electronic funds transfers, appreciated securities, donor-advised funds, and qualified charitable distributions from IRAs, including required minimum distributions. These options allow you to support the OSFL in ways that align with your financial and philanthropic goals.
Please reach out to the OSFL directly at info@OSFL.org or 607-936-2873 if you'd like to make a gift through an alternate method.
Join us for an unforgettable summer evening as we transform Elmira’s Eldridge Park into a vibrant open-air concert hall. Sounds of America is a free outdoor symphony concert celebrating the spirit of our nation and the joy of community—an experience that’s as uplifting as it is unforgettable.
Set beside the scenic lake, this one-night-only event features a full 58-piece orchestra performing iconic American works—from Copland’s powerful Lincoln Portrait to Ives’ bold Variations on America, along with beloved favorites from Broadway, film, and jazz.
Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy the company of family and friends as music fills the summer air. Children will dance, neighbors will gather, and the evening will end in spectacular fashion—with fireworks lighting up the sky above the water.
Whether you’re a lifelong symphony lover or hearing a live orchestra for the first time, this concert is for everyone. It’s a celebration of who we are, where we’ve come from, and the sounds that bring us together.
Free and open to all. No tickets required. Just bring your love of music!
SOUNDS OF AMERICA
Saturday, June 27
7:00 PM
Eldridge Park
96 Eldridge Park Dr, Elmira, NY 14901
FREE FOR ALL!
This free concert is made possible through community support. Help us make this an annual tradition by pledging your support today!