WESTFIELD –America’s democracy is based upon the freedoms of speech and religion as part of its cornerstone. This program presents 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 sound, provided by Alex Prizgintas and his amplified cello, will be shown at the Westfield Public Library in Westfield on Tuesday, August 11 at 7 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. Equally comfortable with intimate and stadium settings, Alex can craft his own wall-of-sound through his 1,000-watt amp.Accompanied by a narration that reveals some of the back stories of baroque, jazz, folk, and Rock n’ Roll classics, he immerses his audience in a journey through musical history. As Alex says, “in these shows, 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.”
Community
July 23, 2026
America: Songs of Patriotism, Protest, Praise
