Under the theme "Sounds of America," the Baldwin Pops Band and Eastern Shore Choral Society will unite for two free outdoor concerts in May celebrating the nation's musical heritage.

The performances are set for 6 p.m. Sunday, May 18, behind the Spanish Fort Community Center at 7361 Spanish Fort Boulevard, and 6 p.m. Monday, May 26, at Henry George Park in Fairhope, located at the corner of Fairhope Avenue and Bay View Street.

Led by conductors Wayne Fillingim and Chad Faison, the Baldwin Pops Band will perform a selection of patriotic works. The Eastern Shore Choral Society, directed by Dr. Laura Moore, will join the band on several pieces and offer a performance of its own.

Featured titles include "America Exultant," "America the Beautiful," "America Variations," "American Fanfare," "An American Fanfare," "Battle Hymn of the Republic," "Early Light," "Echoes From the Battlefield," "God Bless America," "I Hear America Singing," "Salute to the Armed Forces" and "Torch of Freedom."

The Baldwin Pops and the Eastern Shore Choral Society are both volunteer groups founded in the 1990s. They've collaborated several times over the years and share a few members.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and pack a picnic. During intermission, children will be invited to join a march led by the band, and the coveted Checkered Tablecloth Award will be given to the person or group with the most creative picnic setup.

The concerts are sponsored by the cities of Spanish Fort and Fairhope.

For more information, visit www.baldwinpops.com, search "Baldwin Pops Band" on Facebook or call (251) 987-5757.