Patriotism Featured at the Kennedy Center
Patriotism is taking on a significant role at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. As part of its 2025-2026 season, the National Symphony Orchestra plans to start each performance with the national anthem, marking the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Richard Grenell, the Kennedy Center Director, expressed his support for this initiative, saying it was fitting for the orchestra to play the national anthem.
This new tradition follows a recent gala in September that celebrated the National Symphony Orchestra’s 95th anniversary. The event showcased pieces by music director Gianandrea Noseda and famous composers like Aaron Copland and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, raising a remarkable $3.45 million, which set a record for fundraising at the venue.
While these performances highlight a sense of American appreciation, the Kennedy Center has another important objective: honoring veterans.
In a recent statement, the Kennedy Center noted that over 2,000 tickets, valued at more than $100,000, were given to veterans through a collaboration with Vet Tix, a nonprofit that provides free tickets to veterans and their families for live events.
Vet Tix’s founder, Michael A. Focaret III, a U.S. Navy veteran, shared his gratitude for the partnership, emphasizing how this generosity allows many from the veteran community to enjoy memorable experiences in the performing arts.
Moreover, the Kennedy Center has been active in providing tickets to events like “The Sound of Music,” which saw attendance from over 100 veterans and their families. Grenell has also reached out to Gold Star Families, the relatives of service members who have died, to offer them tickets.
Roman Daravi, vice president of communications at the Kennedy Center, stated their commitment to ensuring that everyone, particularly those who have served the nation, can enjoy the enriching power of the performing arts.
