National Symphony Orchestra to perform national anthem at every Kennedy Center show
The National Symphony Orchestra will open every concert in its 2025–2026 season with the national anthem to honor America's 250th birthday. This patriotic initiative at the Kennedy Center in Washington also includes expanded support for veterans through ticket donations. The announcement highlights a focus on American pride and service members' appreciation.
Patriotism is taking center stage at the Kennedy Center, where the National Symphony Orchestra plans to kick off every performance in its 2025–2026 season by playing the national anthem. This new tradition commemorates America's 250th birthday and was announced by Kennedy Center President Ambassador Richard Grenell.
"The National Symphony should be playing the national anthem," Grenell said in a statement.
The initiative follows the orchestra's 95th anniversary gala in September, which featured Music Director Gianandrea Noseda and works by composers Aaron Copland and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. That event raised $3.45 million, setting a fundraising record for the Kennedy Center.
In parallel, the Kennedy Center is broadening its commitment to veterans. Through a partnership with Vet Tix, a nonprofit providing free event tickets to U.S. veterans and their families, the center donated more than 2,000 tickets valued at over $100,000.
"We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts," said Michael A. Focareto III, founder and CEO of Vet Tix and a U.S. Navy veteran. "Their generosity allows countless veterans, service members and their families in the Capital Region to experience amazing performing arts productions and create memories that will last a lifetime."
For instance, more than 100 veterans and their families attended a performance of "The Sound of Music" in September. Grenell also donated tickets from his box to Gold Star Families—immediate relatives of service members killed in the line of duty.
"We’re committed to creating opportunities for everyone to experience the power of the performing arts, especially those who have served our great nation," said Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations at the Kennedy Center.