PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 16, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- An exciting, new Philadelphia tradition is being launched this year when Peter Nero and the Philly Pops(R) performs on Festival Pier at Penn's Landing followed by a fireworks extravaganza. The perfect close to the summer, this free event begins at 5 p.m. on Monday, September 3 when guests can buy (or bring) dinner and enjoy strolling entertainment at Festival Pier on Columbus Boulevard at Spring Garden Street. From 6:30 to 8:15 p.m., it's the grand finale of the evening -- Peter Nero and the Philly Pops and fantastic fireworks. The concert continues until 8:00 p.m. at which time the POPS will provide the musical accompaniment to the fantastic fireworks display! This event is free to the public due to the generous support of Independence Blue Cross.
Peter Nero and the Philly Pops will present a patriotic salute to summer with all-American favorites like "Strike Up The Band" and "God Bless America." They will perform great movie hits including Nero's million-selling recording "Summer of '42" and the ever-popular Big Band sound by Count Basie, Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington.
Peter Nero, a virtuoso pianist, has built an impressive career as a Pops conductor, arranger and composer. His solid musicianship, innovative programming, and warm, informal stage presence have won him a loyal and enthusiastic audience. He will return to the Labor Day celebration at Penn's Landing for the 2nd year, creating a true Philadelphia tradition.
In the 2001-2002 season, Peter and his Philly Pops continued to bring enormous pride to the City of Philadelphia as they bid a fond farewell to their 23 year home at the Academy of Music and presented their first season in their new home as a Resident Company of The Regional Performing Arts Center (RPAC) performing in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center.
Known as America's POPS orchestra, the POPS has won great acclaim throughout the nation. Their eclectic style showcases every style of music from Broadway and the Classics to Big Band and the Blues. Celebrating his 40th year as a recording artist, music director Peter Nero is a national treasure with more than 65 recordings, two Grammy Awards, ten Grammy nominations and an Emmy Award. The Washington Post recently proclaimed, "Peter Nero is the epitome of the POPS conductor-performer!" For additional information about the POPS, call 215-546-6400.
To learn more about this and any other event at Penn's Landing, please call (215) 922-2FUN or visit www.pennslandingcorp.com. The Labor Day Concert and Fireworks is part of the 2002 Summer Season at Penn's Landing, presented by Independence Blue Cross.