Hip Hop in the Concert Hall

Music is a profound reflection of the diverse tapestry of human experiences, continually evolving and intertwining with new influences. Just as George Gershwin's iconic Rhapsody in Blue broke boundaries by infusing jazz into classical music a century ago, American Voices envisions a modern-day revolution at the crossroads of hip-hop and classical music. This bold initiative, known as Hip-hop in the Concert Hall, sparks a dynamic cultural dialogue that celebrates diversity and challenges composers to innovate, forging a new chapter in cultural diplomacy through the arts.

At the forefront of this initiative stands The Five Elements, a Hip-hop Concerto by the visionary composer Kerwin Young. American Voices sees this concerto as the inaugural step in an ongoing series of commissions aimed at cultivating a vibrant new repertoire for U.S. orchestras, bands, soloists, and chamber ensembles. These commissions will cater to a spectrum of musical proficiency levels, providing fertile ground for educational programs and igniting broader conversations about American cultural heritage in educational institutions nationwide.

In a powerful response to historical marginalization, The Five Elements, a Hip-hop Concerto authentically captures the essence of hip-hop's origins— from spontaneous jam sessions to the vibrant street culture, pulsating break beats, and electrifying breakdancing. True to its title, the concerto embodies the fundamental elements of the genre: the DJ, the Rapper, the Beatboxer, the Breakdancer, and the Visual Artist. Scored for orchestra, an eight-piece band, and five soloists gracing the stage, this groundbreaking work pays homage to hip-hop's roots with live instrumentation and a jubilant celebration of its kaleidoscopic diversity.

We invite organizations, orchestras, educational institutions, and ensembles to collaborate with American Voices on the next Hip-hop in the Concert Hall initiative’s commission. For more info contact John Ferguson at john.ferguson@americanvoices.org.