“Lara Downes is a uniquely gifted, acclaimed and curious artist who recognizes the complexity of our collective narratives of ourselves and our country in everything she does. This project creates spaces for us to listen in a new way and participate in a shared imagining all led by the belief that we are stronger together.”
DECLARATION
In 2026 we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, founded on the core principles of “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Iconoclastic pianist Lara Downes examines each of these three essential concepts with DECLARATION, a world premiere concert at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts on July 1, 2026, featuring new works by Grammy award-winning composers Valerie Coleman, Arturo O'Farrill and Christopher Tin, and an array of groundbreaking American artists who represent the breadth of our musical landscape. Artists like Broadway legend Brian Stokes Mitchell, folk icon Judy Collins, Rhiannon Giddens and Ledisi join Lara for a revelatory celebration reflecting the shared human experiences and journeys that connect us as Americans, regardless of time and place.
The concert performance is framed by video portraits captured during Lara’s travels across America with THE DECLARATION PROJECT, an invitation across the nation that gathers together American communities to find common ground in reflecting on the magic and mystery of life, the ongoing quest for freedom and equality, and the radical power of joy.
PROGRAM
LIFE
Lara Downes - Valerie Coleman: Life
Judy Collins - Both Sides Now
Brian Stokes Mitchell - Stephen Sondheim: Being Alive
The Declaration Project - Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
LIBERTY
Ledisi - I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free
Rhiannon Giddens - Freedom Highway
Lara Downes and the orchestra - Arturo O’Farrill: Liberty
PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS
Brian Stokes Mitchell - The Impossible Dream
Whole Company - Over the Rainbow
Lara Downes and the orchestra - Christopher Tin: Pursuit of Happiness
BEHIND THE SCENES: PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS
Valerie Coleman photo: Kia Caldwell - Arturo O’Farrill photo: Sophie Le Roux - Christopher Tin photo: Andy Wilkinson