Davóne Tines is a force to be reckoned with in the classical music world. The 38-year-old baritone has been making waves since his breakthrough performance in 2016, and his latest residency at London's Barbican Centre is just another testament to his talent.
Tines' approach to singing is anything but conventional. He's not afraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. In fact, he believes that "the way something is constructed is as important as what is constructed". This mindset is reflected in his performances, which often feature collaborations with musicians and dancers from diverse backgrounds.
One of the highlights of Tines' residency was a concert featuring the music of Julius Eastman, a Black, gay composer who defied convention in every way. The performance was a masterclass in lateral artistic agency, where Tines took charge of commissioning a piece for his collaborators rather than simply executing it. This approach allowed him to create something truly unique and special.
Tines' most recent work, Concerto No 2: Anthem, is another example of his innovative spirit. Commissioned by the LA Philharmonic in 2022, the concerto asks the question "what are we founding our sovereignty on?". Tines brought together three composers to create a piece that turns the Star-Spangled Banner into Lift Every Voice and Sing over the course of three movements.
In an era where empathy seems to be in short supply, Tines' vision for a more compassionate world is inspiring. "I hope it can become a place where true empathy is exercised," he says. This message resonates deeply, especially in the nation's 250th anniversary year.
As Tines continues to push the boundaries of classical music, one thing is clear: he's not afraid to take risks and challenge the status quo. His passion for his craft is infectious, and his commitment to creating art that reflects our world today is a breath of fresh air.
Tines' approach to singing is anything but conventional. He's not afraid to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. In fact, he believes that "the way something is constructed is as important as what is constructed". This mindset is reflected in his performances, which often feature collaborations with musicians and dancers from diverse backgrounds.
One of the highlights of Tines' residency was a concert featuring the music of Julius Eastman, a Black, gay composer who defied convention in every way. The performance was a masterclass in lateral artistic agency, where Tines took charge of commissioning a piece for his collaborators rather than simply executing it. This approach allowed him to create something truly unique and special.
Tines' most recent work, Concerto No 2: Anthem, is another example of his innovative spirit. Commissioned by the LA Philharmonic in 2022, the concerto asks the question "what are we founding our sovereignty on?". Tines brought together three composers to create a piece that turns the Star-Spangled Banner into Lift Every Voice and Sing over the course of three movements.
In an era where empathy seems to be in short supply, Tines' vision for a more compassionate world is inspiring. "I hope it can become a place where true empathy is exercised," he says. This message resonates deeply, especially in the nation's 250th anniversary year.
As Tines continues to push the boundaries of classical music, one thing is clear: he's not afraid to take risks and challenge the status quo. His passion for his craft is infectious, and his commitment to creating art that reflects our world today is a breath of fresh air.