With a bright and cheerful opening and a lyrical middle section, this piece celebrates the early years of the United States and the sacrifices that secured our freedom. Composed by Michael Hopkins, this piece will provide a patriotic flavor for any concert. With no shifting except in the basses, this piece includes many opportunities for right-hand development and work on dynamics. Some hi third fingers are required in viola and violin, and the cello part requires an extension. The ending is a return of the opening, but with a descending chromatic line in the cello and bass parts.