America, the land of the free… the land of plenty… where the streets are paved with gold. Drawn by these mythic images, music's immigrants followed the routes of hundreds of thousands of others, seeking freedom, safety, and opportunity. What they found here was a new energy, exotic rhythms, a vibrant, multi-cultural folk tradition, and audiences hungry for music-in concert halls, in films, and on radio.

Trace their journey, and hear the marvels that they created in this bright new land. Join Leonard Slatkin and the National Symphony Orchestra for a fascinating two-week festival showcasing the works of composers who followed their muse to America. In their music you will hear the story of America-the story of a nation built by seekers of freedom.

Each of these concerts will feature two interpretations of the Star Spangled Banner by composers who were not born in the United States of America.

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Follow the history of great composers who journeyed to America