Thousands gathered at Denver's Buell Theatre on July 3 for the Colorado Symphony's Independence Eve concert, presented by CU Anschutz. The annual community tradition celebrated America's 250th anniversary and Colorado's 150th birthday while honoring veterans, active-duty military members, first responders and their families.
Before the music began, Tony Pierce, the Colorado Symphony's chief artistic officer, thanked CU Anschutz for making this year’s concert possible and recognized the caregivers, physicians, researchers and staff whose work improves lives every day.
Representing CU Anschutz, Vik Bebarta, MD, chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine, combat veteran and Air Force reserve colonel with more than 20 years of service, welcomed the audience. Bebarta, who is also the founding director of the CU Anschutz Combat Medicine Research Center, reflected on the shared spirit of service that unites healthcare professionals, military members and the communities they serve.
"Whether we're serving our patients, our country or our neighbors, we accomplish our greatest work together," Bebarta said.
Bebarta highlighted the campus's deep military roots on the grounds of the former Fitzsimons Army Medical Center and the work happening today through the Combat Medicine Research Center and the CU Anschutz Marcus Institute for Brain Health. Together, these programs advance care and research for veterans, service members and first responders by translating battlefield lessons into innovations in trauma care, emergency medicine, mental health and brain injury treatment.
He highlighted the natural partnership between CU Anschutz and the Colorado Symphony, noting that just as an orchestra brings individual musicians together to create something greater, communities thrive when people come together through service, connection and shared experiences.
The evening concluded with a stirring performance of patriotic favorites and beloved American classics by the Colorado Symphony under the direction of Conductor Scott Terrell, featuring Principal Trumpet Justin Bartels as soloist.
As attendees kicked off their Independence Day celebrations, the event served as a reminder of CU Anschutz's ongoing commitment to supporting those who serve while bringing the community together through a cherished Colorado tradition.
Learn more about CU Anschutz's collaboration with the Colorado Symphony.
Photo at top: Vik Bebarta, MD, and Tony Pierce, the Colorado Symphony's chief artistic officer
.png)