PLYMOUTH — The Plymouth State University Symphonic Band and guest artists will pay tribute to members of the generation of Americans who brought our country through The Great Depression and World War II in a performance on Sunday, April 27, at 3 p.m. at PSU's Silver Center for the Arts.

While in Washington D.C. in September to conduct the U. S. Navy Band, PSU Director of Bands Gary Corcoran and his wife visited the National World War II Memorial, which opened in 2004. "I realized that the time for giving proper thanks to these veterans is rapidly running out," Corcoran said. "I wanted to pay tribute the World War II Veterans and their families, whose service to our country is beyond measure."

Joining Corcoran on the podium will be LTJG Patrick K. Sweeten, Associate Conductor of The United States Navy Band. Lt. Sweeten will conduct "Symphonic Prelude: The Cemetery at Colleville-Sur-Mer" by Mark Camphouse and "The Armed Forces Salute." Overlooking Omaha Beach, the cemetery at Colleville-Sur-Mer is the resting place of the fallen soldiers from the D-Day invasion of Normandy June 6, 1944.

A narration during the concert will be delivered by Paul Mroczka, Professor of Theatre. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen will accompany the band with a poem entitled "At the Site of the Memorial," which is included in Samuel R. Hazo's composition, "Each Time You Tell Their Story."

Solo violinist Bozena O'Brien will perform the theme from "Schindler's List." The PSU Contemporary Dance Ensemble, choreographed by Amanda Schiller, will perform during "At Dawn They Slept: December 7, 1941" which pertains to the Japanese attack on the American fleet at Pearl Harbor.

Student conductor David Saunders will lead the band and a select group of singers in "Let Freedom Ring."

Other musical selections include "Glenn Miller in Concert" and Sousa's "Stars and Stripes Forever."

World War II Veterans interested in attending are urged to contact Dr. Gary Corcoran (garycplymouth.edu or 603-535-2495) for special details. PSU students and faculty/staff are admitted free. Other tickets for the performance are $6.00 ($5.00 for seniors) and will be available at the door. Call 535-ARTS or 1-800-3869 for more information. If special accommodations are needed, please call in advance.