The Aspen Music Festival celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States over the Independence Day weekend. The festival's first-weekend program featured American symphonic music, including some lesser-known pieces. Performers included top American singers, delivering exciting music to the audience.

The program highlighted works by notable opera composers, such as Jake Heggie and John Adams. A new song cycle by Heggie was premiered, and scenes from Adams' first opera were performed. Other works included Charles Ives' variations on "America" and Aaron Copland's Symphony No. 3.

Further details about the festival's program and performances are available from the Aspen Times. The event was well-received, with all performances being described as terrific.