National WWI Museum and Memorial Unveils 2024 Taps at the Tower Schedule

Kansas City Prepares for a Musical Tribute

KANSAS CITY, MO – The return of summer in Kansas City comes with the soothing sounds of Taps resonating from the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The annual event known as Taps at the Tower, designed to celebrate the historical importance of the piece “Taps” within the U.S. Military, is set to span three days in 2024.

A Three-Day Celebration and Four Special Ceremonies

This year, the schedule includes four unique ceremonies dedicated to keeping alive the history and significance of Taps. The ceremonies aim at appreciating and recognizing different aspects of our rich national history and musical culture.

Day One: Honoring Native American WWI Veterans [Sunday, June 16]

Approximately at sundown (8:55 p.m.), the Memorial Courtyard will welcome Anella Garcia, granddaughter of a Choctaw WWI veteran, and Dr. Charlotte McCloskey, granddaughter of a Sicangu Lakota WWI veteran. They will pay tribute to the service and achievements of the estimated 12,000 Native Americans who served in WWI.

Day Two: Kansas City St. Andrews Pipes and Drums [Monday, June 17]

The Memorial Courtyard will host an approximately 10-15 minute performance at sundown (8:55 p.m.). The band, Kansas City St. Andrews Pipes and Drums, has a rich 60-year history and is celebrated for producing countless professional and Grade 1 pipers and drummers.

Day Three: Kansas City Symphony Mobile Music Box & Kansas City Celtic Pipes and Drums [Tuesday, June 18]

The event’s final day kicks off at 7:30 p.m. on the South Plaza with a one-hour performance by the Kansas City Symphony’s string quartet. Audience members are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and picnic blankets for a comfortable outdoor musical experience.

As sundown approaches (8:55 p.m.), the Memorial Courtyard will again come alive with the sounds of the Kansas City Celtic Pipes and Drums. This volunteer-operated, non-profit band is known for preserving and promoting traditional bagpipe melodies from Scotland and Ireland.

General Information

The Liberty Memorial Generic, warrior-themed imagery, will enhance the atmosphere of the three-day event. For more details, please visit the Taps at the Tower official website.

Appreciating the Past, Celebrating the Present

The annual event, Taps at the Tower, is more than just a musical experience. It serves as a touching tribute to the servicemen of the past and as a reminder of our diverse cultural heritage. This year, with four thoughtful ceremonies spanning three days, Kansas City is in for a historical, patriotic treat.