For 25 years, the Essex County Summer Orchestra Players have followed the same simple formula: rehearse together for a few weeks each summer, then play one free concert before going their separate ways for the year. On Aug. 2, that tradition hits its silver anniversary with a program built entirely around American music.

Sixty volunteer musicians take the stage at Livingston High School at 3 p.m. for "Made in America," led by conductor Nate White through four works: John Williams' "Theme from Jurassic Park," Ferde Grofé's "Mississippi Suite," William Grant Still's "Afro-American Symphony," and Rachmaninoff's "Symphonic Dances, Op. 45." Admission is free, with donations accepted to support the nonprofit.

"The orchestra looks forward to joining you for a joyful afternoon of rich melodies, unique instrumental colors and deep emotions on the first Sunday afternoon in August," said Jilda Sidebottom, publicity captain for the Livingston Symphony Orchestra, which shares members with ECSPO.

Founded in 2001, the group fills a real gap: most area orchestras go quiet for the summer, leaving both musicians and audiences without live music for months. Players from community ensembles across the region gather for Tuesday evening rehearsals from late June through July at Livingston High School, all building toward this single public performance. White, a freelance double bassist and Montclair State University graduate, has led the ensemble since 2018. He also founded the Freelance Ensemble Artists of New Jersey in 2008 and serves as artistic director of the FEA Symphony, performing summers in Maplewood and Plainfield.

Grofé's "Mississippi Suite" traces a musical journey from quiet Minnesota streams down to the Mardi Gras energy of New Orleans. Still's "Afro-American Symphony," widely considered one of the most popular American symphonies ever written, weaves blues harmonies into a full orchestral form. Rachmaninoff's "Symphonic Dances" closes the program as the composer's final major work.

Residents interested in helping with advertising, program distribution, or other volunteer tasks can reach the orchestra at [email protected]. Musicians of high school age and older are welcome to inquire about joining future seasons.

The concert is Sunday, Aug. 2, at 3 p.m. in the Livingston High School auditorium — free admission, donations welcome.