Music Under the Stars

So, one of the cooler things about West Point is that the school has its own band.  Now, the West Point Band isn't just any run-of-the-mill army band.  No, it's one of three special bands in the Army, and the members are recruited from professional musical backgrounds, and all have at least a Masters', if not a Ph.D. in music.

During the summer, the West Point band puts on a Sunday night concert series called "Music Under the Stars".  Most nights they have a theme, like tonight was "the music of Billy Joel", and last week was a kids' night.  Well, needless to say, the band is talented and they come up with their own arrangements for the various songs they play.  It's a very enjoyable experience with an amazing view.

In addition to the Sunday night series, the first Saturday following the 4th of July (timed to coincide with the New Cadets' first Saturday night at West Point) they put on an Independence Day concert, which culminates with musical accompaniment of fireworks.

The coolest part is that the fireworks are set off so close that you are practically looking straight up to see them, and believe me, it was the loudest and most concussion-filled fireworks display I've seen.  It was pretty dang cool.

So, if you're ever in the neighborhood, you should check it out as West Point actually allows tourists on post.