Just in time for the Fourth of July weekend, "Red, White and Blues — The Star Spangled Rhythms of America" was performed by the Glendale Renaissance Orchestra. Thursday marked the second concert of the orchestra's "Season of Pops" at the Americana at Brand's outdoor concert stage in the park. The concert was presented by New West Symphony and Glendale Arts.
The evening began with a special award presentation for the recipients of the 2010 Spirit of American Youth Scholarships. Launched in 2009, the scholarships are offered to high school seniors in Glendale and the surrounding communities. More than 300 students applied by submitting applications and essays. The $10,000 scholarship winners were Yasamin Azarakhsh and Alexander Kazandjian. The two runners-up, Amanda Borland and Shaun Mehra, each received $2,500 scholarships. The four seniors were honored for their outstanding spirit, leadership and social responsibility.
Grammy Award-winning arranger/pianist Victor A. Vanacore conducted the concert with aplomb. The patriotic program included the Star Spangled Banner, Disco at the Pops and Stars and Stripes. The crowd favorite was the King of Pop Michael Jackson Tribute.
