The Philly Pops

The weather was perfect, the Mann looked beautiful (as always) and everyone in the crowd seemed happy to be there. The program gave listeners a wide range of music. The two soloists, Alison Blackwell and Hugh Panaro, both Philadelphians, did their city and themselves proud. Panaro's rendition of I'M PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN had people jumping to their feet and cheering in appreciation. Blackwell's BATTLE HYMN OF THE REPUBLIC had many in the audience --myself included -- teary-eyed. My favorite piece, composer John Williams' HYMN TO THE FALLEN from SAVING PRIVATE RYAN, showed the Pops' artistry to its best advantage. What a great night! I hope next year's concert will be as good!

The Philly Pops' inaugural event was amazing. Honoring veterans, both living and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice losing their lives fighting for our country, is what Memorial Day should be about. Barbeques are fun, but remembering the vets is important too. Looking forward to attending this annual event!

We attended the first annual Memorial Salute Concert by the Philly Pops on Saturday night. The Mann is one of my favorite venues, and it did not disappoint for this concert. As far as the concert went, it was a fantastic salute to veterans, past and present, as well as first responders. The Philly Pops, along with their chorus, were fantastic! There were 2 solo artists, Allison Blackwell, and Hugh Panero, who practically brought down the house with their renditions of various songs. We enjoyed it so much that we've already spoken to friends about attending it again next year.

The Philly Pops were excellent as usual! The pre-speeches not so great. Mayor Kenney's representative wished everyone a Happy Memorial Day. Not once but twice. There is nothing happy about this holiday. It is a solemn holiday meant to remember those who gave their lives and put their lives on the line in defense of our country.

Great show! A wonderful tribute to our military--past and present, first responders and Boy Scouts.

The Philly Pops and the two Broadway entertainers with roots to Philadelphia were fantastic. The choice of music was perfect for a Memorial day tribute. We will return next year. Loved it!

Philly Pops --astounding as always!! Native son and daughter, Hugh and Allison--superb! Philly Pops choir sounded like a hundred voices--fabulous! I appreciated the fact that Comcast, a co-partner for the event, was trying to raise money for the Travis Manion foundation, but I did mind the fact that their donation to this worthwhile charity hinged on whether I "tweeted" or "facebooked" I don't use either of these social mediums. I want to enjoy watching a show, not snapping and posting photos. A wealthy company like Comcast should just make the donation without conditions.

Attended the event on Monday and truly enjoyed it. These young students were amazing. The Philly Pops should continue to sponsor these performances and provide additional Master Classes to these schools that will show how important it is to continue studies and to strive for improvement. Long live Jazz music!