The Karl L. King Municipal Band of Fort Dodge is planning a special concert to celebrate this year’s Independence Day holiday. This concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. today at the historic Karl L. King Bandshell in Oleson Park. There is no admission charge, courtesy of the city of Fort Dodge.

Conductor Jerrold P. Jimmerson has planned an exciting evening of music that is pure Americana. Also involved in the evening’s program is David Klee, assistant conductor.

“With July 4th being on Tuesday this year, this will be a great way to enjoy the long holiday weekend with a band concert full of familiar patriotic music to celebrate our country’s independence,” Jimmerson said.

Opening this patriotic concert will be “An American Fanfare,” by Rick Kirby, based on “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee.” March music is always a part of every concert, and this week will include one of Karl L. King’s marches, “147th Field Artillery,” and his galop, “Majestic,” along with former conductor W.B. Green’s march, “Operation Freedom.”

Highlighting the program will be the exciting “Concord” by Clare Grundman. This selection is based on three traditional tunes from old New England during the American Revolution, and includes “TheWhite Cockade,” William Billings’ “America,” and “Yankee Doodle.”

Also on the program is the moving Carmen Dragon arrangement of “America, the Beautiful,” along with the well-known ragtime song, “The Entertainer.”

A medley of four songs, titled “Satchmo!” will highlight the music of Louis Armstrong, one of America’s greatest jazz trumpeters. Armstrong often stated he was born on July 4, although his official date of birth was confirmed about 10 years after his death to actually be Aug. 6.

Scott Johnston, Fort Dodge, who works at Shimkat Motor Co. in Fort Dodge, will narrate a moving tribute to our 35th president, John Fitzgerald Kennedy. This year commemorates the 100th anniversary of JFK’s birth on May 29, 1917. Johnston will narrate “Ask Not,” with band accompaniment.

Members of the percussion section will be featured on “Dazzling Drums,” set to one of the most famous rudimental drum solos of all, “Connecticut Half-Time.” Featured performers include Jeremy Smith, of Fort Dodge, Jon Merritt, of Manson, and Luke Snyder, of Eagle Grove.

Rounding out this concert of patriotic Americana will be the “Armed Forces Salute,” where each branch of military service will be recognized with the playing of their particular song. Veterans and their families will be asked to stand and be recognized.

The concert will close with America’s national march, “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa, followed by the playing of our National Anthem.

Jimmerson invites everyone to “bring their small American flags to wave at appropriate times during this one hour tribute to American independence.”

An ice cream social, sponsored by the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, will start about 6:30 pm. Homemade ice cream and fresh baked goodies will be available for purchase prior to and during the concert. Remember to bring along your own lawn chairs or blanket, since there is no seating provided.

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If you go: Karl King Band

What: Independence Day concert

Where: Karl L. King Bandshell, Oleson Park

When: 7:30 p.m. today

Cost: free