Answer The Call Of 1776: St. Maries Choral Arts Seeks Local Artists For America 250 Concert Series

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — As the nation prepares to mark a historic milestone, the St. Maries Choral Arts (SMCA) is inviting local artists to take part in a unique creative collaboration celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

For its 2026 concert season, SMCA is building a program that blends music, history and visual storytelling, and organizers say they want the community to help shape that experience.

A Musical Journey Through America’s Story

The upcoming season will highlight American composers and writers spanning centuries, weaving together voices from the nation’s founding era to today’s modern artists. Selections will draw from historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson, whose words on liberty helped define the nation, and poet Emma Lazarus, whose work continues to symbolize hope and refuge.

Musically, audiences can expect a wide-ranging program from early American composer William Billings to contemporary Maryland educator Reuben Burrows. The season will also feature reimagined works inspired by Lowell Mason, Paul Simon and the iconic duo Rodgers & Hammerstein, alongside beloved compositions by Samuel Barber and Harry T. Burleigh.

Organizers describe the program as both reflective and uplifting, a tribute to “this 250-year American experiment of courage and compassion, hope, determination, difficulties and triumphs.”

Call For Artists: Turning Sound Into Visual Storytelling

To complement the music, SMCA is seeking visual artists to create original works inspired by the “America 250” theme. Selected pieces will be displayed live during the spring 2026 concert series, transforming each performance into a multi-sensory experience.

Local artists are invited to step into the story of a nation 250 years in the making, bringing their own voice, vision and perspective to what independence means today. Whether inspired by the founding ideals of liberty and equality or shaped by modern experiences, creators are encouraged to explore the spirit of America through a fresh, personal lens. From bold, contemporary interpretations to deeply reflective pieces rooted in history, this is an opportunity to reimagine the meaning of freedom, not just as it was in 1776, but as it continues to evolve in communities like ours.

Artists are encouraged to explore the nation’s history, identity and evolving story through their work, whether celebratory, reflective or thought-provoking.

Applicants may submit up to three samples from their existing portfolio, along with a paragraph describing their proposed concept. Submissions can include any medium, from painting and photography to digital or mixed media.

Who Can Apply And What To Expect

The opportunity is open to artists ages 18 and older who live in St. Mary’s, Calvert or Charles counties.

All artwork must be family-friendly and suitable for audiences of all ages. Additional display requirements apply depending on the medium, including proper hanging hardware for wall pieces and stands for sculptures.

Key Dates To Know

• Submission deadline: April 21, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
• Artist notification: By April 26, 2026, at 5 p.m.
• Artwork completion deadline: May 22, 2026
• Concert dates: May 30, May 31, June 6 and June 8, 2026

Following the performances, artists will have 30 days to retrieve their work.

A Community-Centered Celebration

With its blend of music, history and visual art, SMCA’s America 250 season aims to do more than entertain, it seeks to spark reflection and connection.

For local artists, the call offers a chance to not only showcase their work, but to contribute to a broader narrative about the nation’s past, present and future that will unfold both on stage and through the creative lens of the community.

For more information or to submit questions, artists are encouraged to contact St. Maries Choral Arts directly via email: smchoralarts@gmail.com, or if you’re ready to apply and submit your artwork, visit the St. Mary’s Arts Council Calls for Art webpage.

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