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Butcher Brown Joins Richmond Symphony’s Celebration of Black Music in Film

In partnership with the Richmond Symphony, local entrepreneur James Crump-Wallace will bring a special music showcase to the Dominion Energy Center celebrating the rich musical heritage of Black cinema on Jan. 18. The “Celebration of Black Music in Film” will feature the Symphony and a host of special musical guests to transport audiences on a journey through classical arrangements of iconic soundtracks from films like The Wiz, Shaft, Get Out, Superfly, Crooklyn, Do The Right Thing, Purple Rain, Dream Girls and many more.

This extraordinary evening will feature the Richmond Symphony, conducted by the talented Naima Burrs, alongside the dynamic RVA-based group Butcher Brown. Together, they will bring these beloved film scores to life with a fresh, contemporary classical twist.

“We’re excited to partner with Butcher Brown to elevate this event to new heights,” said Matt Wilshire, vice president of artistic operations for the Richmond Symphony. “Their unique blend of jazz, hip-hop and funk will add a modern dimension to these classic soundtracks.”

“I wanted to take something that people already connect with—things that hold so much weight in Black culture—and present it in a place that is historically known for displaying the talents of the best of the best,” Crump-Wallace said. “’The Celebration of Black Music in Film’ will affirm Black art is, in fact, fine art.”

Inspired by the success of tribute concerts performed by the Charlotte and National Symphony Orchestras, Crump-Wallace was moved to bring a similar celebration of Black music to Richmond. As a lifelong lover of music and cinema, he sought to create an event that would not only entertain but also educate and inspire. With a keen eye for unique experiences, Crump-Wallace has been at the forefront of Richmond’s cultural scene. His co-founded venture, Secret Supper Society, has garnered attention for its creative, thematic culinary experiences that often celebrate Black culture and history.

Guest conductor and Director of Orchestral Studies at Virginia State University, Naima Burrs, will lead the Symphony.

“I’m looking forward to highlighting some of the best musical scores written across a variety of genres, which have served as significant soundtracks for Black cinema,” Burrs said. “Many of these films reflect the power and beauty of the Black experience, sharing history and celebrating a shared identity. I hope that the audience will be excited to reminisce about what this music means to them. It’s a true celebration of Black culture and the impact that it has had on the world of arts and entertainment, and on the world.”

The “Celebration of Black Music in Film” tickets are now available for purchase online here, and at the Dominion Energy Center ticket office. For more information on the showcase, click here.

Photo Credit Jacky Flav

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