Pulsating hip hop beats may not be the sounds you expect to hear at the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. But in a concert series full of surprises, we’ve learned not to expect anything predictable.
On March 24, the modern dissonance of symphonic composer Igor Stravinsky as performed by Baltimore Symphony Orchestra musicians will meld with the rocking sounds of Dr. Dog and the rhythms of hip hop collective the Baltimore Boom Bap Society. It’s all part of the latest concert in Pulse, a series collaboration between the BSO and local radio station WTMD that blends BSO members with indie bands.
“Each show in the Pulse series is a new opportunity to delve into a wholly unique sound world,” says Nicholas Hersh, BSO associate conductor who is leading the show.
So far, in concerts featuring Dawes and local favorite Wye Oak, the results have been musically astounding, which made this latest announcement particularly intriguing.
According to a news release, during the concert, the Boom Bap Society will play with the BSO musicians during a suite from Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale, which tells the story of a military man who trades his violin to the devil. Traditionally, the music is woven with a spoken narrative, and that’s where the Boom Bap Society comes in, reinventing the story and remixing Stravinsky’s music.
Next up will be a set by Dr. Dog, and then the Pennsylvania band will perform some of its own songs arranged by Hersh to include BSO musicians.
And before the show, local hip hop duo Bond St. District will perform in the lobby, where you can also grab local brews and eats. That combination is sure to get you in the mood for a night of musical genre bending.
Tickets are $35, and available at BSOPulse.org or by calling 410-783-8000. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.