Ben Folds Revolutionizes Music with Declassified Series at Kennedy Center

Ben Folds is shaking up the music scene with his innovative Declassified concert series at the Kennedy Center. This highly anticipated event sees a unique collaboration between contemporary artists Jacob Collier, Laufey, and dodie, who perform with the world-renowned National Symphony Orchestra. The idea is to give audiences a fresh take on popular songs by rearranging them into captivating orchestral versions.

Mark your calendars because this special performance premieres on April 12, 2024, at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2 and the PBS App. An encore broadcast is scheduled for April 14 at 3 p.m. But if you miss it, don’t worry; it's all available for streaming on PBS platforms, including PBS.org and the PBS App across various devices, so you won't have to miss out on this orchestral reshaping of modern music.

Unveiling a New Musical Journey

The project encourages artists to step outside their comfort zones by reimagining their popular tracks using solely orchestral instruments. The standard rhythm sections are notably absent, pushing musicians to innovate and bring out each piece's essence through orchestrations alone. Contributors to this creative enterprise, such as Regina Spektor, Alex Lacamoire, and Steven Reineke, have shared insights into Ben Folds' ambitious mission to seamlessly blend different music genres. They emphasize the depth and layers added to familiar songs when re-envisioned in this dynamic format.

A Collaborative Creation

The spirit of collaboration is at the heart of Declassified. Artists and orchestra members work closely together to ensure every note has intention and impact. This distinctive approach results in transformative performances that respect the original pieces while exploring new dimensions. The series not only showcases the performers' versatility but also elevates the role of orchestra members, highlighting their skill in crafting new, emotive musical landscapes.

For music lovers and anyone excited about genre-crossing creativity, Ben Folds' Declassified series is a must-watch. It's more than just a concert—it's a revolutionary moment that invites us to experience the power and beauty of orchestral music in unexpected ways.