America’s democracy is based upon the freedoms of speech and religion as part of its cornerstone.

This program, featuring historian and cellist Alex Prizgintas, presents songs of Patriotism, Praise, and Protest as part of the vital fabric that weaves our differences into our distinct strength. Key hymns, noble anthems of patriotism, and tunes of solidarity and resistance make this a worthy program celebrating our union. This unique show will take place at Cornwall’s Munger Cottage on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 6:30 p.m.

Classically trained, he employs non-classical tools like distortion, delay, and the iconic “wah-wah” guitar pedals symbolic of 1960s Rock n’ roll bands- all in conjunction with a looping station. Accompanied by a narration that reveals some of the backstories of baroque, jazz, folk, and Rock n’ Roll classics, he immerses his audience in a journey through musical history.

“In these shows,” he said, “not only do I gather music but also reinterpret it with tools such as a looping station, guitar effect pedals, a mixer, and an amp, and share it in a format that is part drama, part concert, a bit of storytelling, and mostly a show.”

Those familiar with Prizgintas’ work on the cello might be surprised to learn that he graduated summa cum laude with an undergraduate degree in regional history from Marist College and a graduate degree from Marist in public administration, in addition to serving as president of the Woodbury Historical Society and town historian of Woodbury.

To learn more and see other video samples of his music and lectures, please visit alexprizgintas.com.