DSO’s Classical Roots Celebrates 25 Years of Leadership and Legacy

February 10, 2026

The Detroit Symphony Orchestra's Classical Roots Celebration is marking its 25th anniversary at Orchestra Hall, honoring retired principal trombonist Kenneth Thompkins for his nearly three-decade career advancing equity and mentorship in classical music. The annual event, which originated in 1978 as a single church concert, has evolved into a major fundraiser supporting programs that develop African American musicians and composers while celebrating Black contributions to classical music. This year's celebration will feature Thompkins performing Carlos Simon's "Troubled Water," a composition he inspired after reflecting on Detroit's Gateway to Freedom monument during the pandemic.

Who is affected

Kenneth Thompkins (retired DSO Principal Trombone, honoree)
Detroit Symphony Orchestra and its African American music development programs
Young musicians participating in the DSO's African American Fellowship Program
Black composers including Carlos Simon, James Lee III, Shawn Okpebholo, George Walker, and others
Chetrice Gillon (Marlowe Stoudamire Award recipient)
Past Classical Roots Steering Committee co-chairs
Musicians of color seeking orchestra positions
Students at Michigan State University studying trombone under Thompkins
Audiences and visitors to the Fisher Music Center exhibition

What action is being taken

The DSO is hosting the 25th anniversary Classical Roots Celebration gala and concert on March 7
Kenneth Thompkins is performing Carlos Simon's "Troubled Water" at the event
The DSO has launched a multi-year interactive exhibition running through 2028 at the Fisher Music Center
Thompkins is teaching as Associate Professor of Trombone at Michigan State University
The event is raising funds for the DSO's African American music and musician development programs
Chetrice Gillon is receiving the Marlowe Stoudamire Award
Tickets are currently being sold at dso.org/classicalroots

Why it matters

This celebration represents a significant milestone in documenting and supporting Black excellence in classical music, an art form where African American artists have historically faced systemic barriers. The event's 25-year presence at Orchestra Hall demonstrates institutional commitment to equity and cultural representation, while the fundraising component ensures sustainable pipeline development for future African American musicians. Thompkins's recognition and critique highlight both the progress made through fellowship programs and the persistent gaps in actual hiring outcomes, making visible the ongoing need for structural reforms in audition practices and diversity initiatives. The multi-year exhibition and approaching 50th overall anniversary position Classical Roots as a national model for inclusion, expanding its impact beyond performance to education and historical preservation.

What's next

The multi-year interactive exhibition will continue through 2028 at the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center. The Classical Roots program is approaching its 50th overall anniversary in 2028.

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle