Heinz Hall
July 20
7:30 p.m.
A contemporary hip-hop star and a classical symphony orchestra might seem an unlikely musical pairing, but this winning combination will electrify Heinz Hall next Thursday night.
Teaming up to present “A Night of Symphonic Hip-Hop” are Grammy, Oscar and Golden Globe–winning rapper Common and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Assistant Conductor Andrés Franco.
Fans of the Chicago-based hip-hop phenom—who is also a prolific actor, film producer, activist and poet—should not miss this one-night-only event showcasing music from Common’s latest album, Black America Again, along with top hits from his career.
After releasing his debut album, Can I Borrow a Dollar?, in 1992, Common rose to fame with the Soulquarians. In 2015, Common won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for his song from the acclaimed 2014 film, Selma, in which he portrayed Civil Rights Movement leader James Bevel.
With Common on vocals, the production will also feature the PSO conducted by Andrés Franco. Known for his imaginative programming and energetic style, Franco has conducted for high-profile orchestras and festivals around the globe. A native of Colombia from a musical family, Franco is dedicated to preserving and performing the music of the Americas.
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