AMERICA 250 CONCERT
Creative OPERAtions and Monmouth County Park System Present I Hear America Singing in Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary
Free concert at Thompson Park’s Theater Barn on Saturday, August 22
LINCROFT, NJ — In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Creative OPERAtions, in collaboration with the Monmouth County Park System, invites audiences to experience I Hear America Singing, a free concert celebrating the rich musical traditions that have shaped our nation.
The performance will take place on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Theater Barn in Thompson Park, located at 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ.
Inspired by Walt Whitman’s iconic poem, I Hear America Singing explores the story of America through music, bringing together classical vocal works, beloved folk songs, spirituals, and piano music in a moving tribute to the nation’s rich musical heritage. The program celebrates the many voices, traditions, and communities that have shaped America’s musical identity over the past 250 years.
The concert features works by some of America’s most influential composers, including Aaron Copland, Carlisle Floyd, Douglas Moore, Florence Price, and Kurt Weill, whose music reflects the breadth and diversity of the American experience.
Featuring professional vocalists Jonathan R. Green, Corinne Schaefer, and Edward Washington II, with pianist David Maiullo, the evening is enhanced by projected visuals highlighting the composers, their stories, and significant moments in American history, creating an immersive experience that is both entertaining and educational.
“The arts have always helped us understand who we are and where we’ve come from,” said Corinne Schaefer, Founder and Artistic Director of Creative OPERAtions. “I Hear America Singing honors America’s 250th anniversary by exploring the music that has shaped our nation’s cultural landscape. Through song, we celebrate not only extraordinary composers, but the enduring spirit, resilience, and creativity that define the American experience.”
Whether you’re a lifelong classical music enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable summer evening with family and friends, I Hear America Singing offers a meaningful and accessible way to commemorate this historic milestone.
Admission is free, but registration is required. Reserve your seats by registering online through the Creative OPERAtions or Monmouth County Park System websites, or by calling 732-842-4000, ext. 1.
For more information about Creative OPERAtions and its mission to make opera and classical music accessible to all, visit www.creative-operations.org
About Creative OPERAtions
Creative OPERAtions is a Monmouth County-based nonprofit organization dedicated to making opera and classical music accessible, engaging, and relevant for today’s audiences. Guided by its belief that opera is for everyone, the organization creates innovative performances, educational programs, and community partnerships that break down barriers to participation and invite people from all backgrounds to experience the transformative power of the arts.