Soulful Symphony

I was so excited to be in the audience. I first heard Darin Atwater on Richard Smallwood video projects, Then I heard his amazing Songs in a Strange Land (and bought the DVD). Dorsey's Lament and Lord, I Want to Be a Christian still speak to my soul. So I was not disappointed at all with the music and the staging of Motown songs ... the violins were ON in Stevie Wonder's Superstition ... as well as the vocalist. I LOVED Paint Factory ... amazing vocal and instrumental arrangements. The reason I did not give the performance a 5 star rating has nothing to do with Mr. Atwater. There was a problem with audio. I kept wondering if there were amateurs running the sound board. At several times during the performance, soloist mikes were not made 'live' until AFTER they started singing. SURELY the sound folks had notes on which mikes were to be activated a mere 5 - 10 seconds before people began singing. There was another selection where the electric bass led in but was never turned down when the violins came in. I could see 20+ bows just 'flying' and barely heard a sound. In my opinion (from Row FF, Seat 121), the sound quality (balance in some pieces) was not achieved ... and the vocalists' mikes were not adjusted well. But I am coming back - it was great entertainment.

I rarely break my word, but I backed out of an event to be at this concert. Darin Atwater's musical gifts are formidable ... always engaging, always enthralling, always exciting. It was wonderful to hear Dorsey's Lament live. When I bought the dvd through MPT, I think I listened to that song EVERY NIGHT for three weeks - that is how much it blessed me. I loved that there was a tribute to Richard Smallwood. I too was fascinated with his blend of gospel and classical music. I had to laugh though when I heard that Smallwood IGNORED Darin Atwater for YEARS ... ah the blessing of that partnership. I cannot wait to buy and give away copies of Mr. Atwater's debut album - summer 2018, come NOW!!!!

As usual, Darin Atwater and his Soulful Symphony, did not disappoint. His compositions and arrangements are just pure genius! The orchestra were captivating with their precision and soulfulness, and the singers left us in awe! Always a treat! Having experienced this musical presentation at the Strathmore, Crampton Auditorium was a bit disappointing. The acoustics were not the best, and I was sitting on the 2nd row.

I have seen the Soulful Symphony four times and enjoyed every performance I have seen. However, the seating was not comfortable. There was no room for your legs. Also I feel the wait for intermission was too long. The Hippodrome is a beautiful place just not very accommodating.

This soulful symphony should be all over the country so the world can take advantage of this hidden gem.

It was a wonderful expreience. The music was wonderful. The singers were great.Both my husband and I enjoyed the event. It was an Anniversary outing for us. We grew up with Motown so all of the music was familiar. The Paint Factory was a change and also very enjoyable.

This was the first time seeing the Soulful Symphony. It is truly everything and more that I've heard and read about.. Starting with the Motown Medleys, it was as if the original singers were actually performing all the way to the Tribute to Michael Jackson. Mr. Atwater is truly a spiritually gifted man and uses his God given talents to share with others. I am just grateful that Mr. Atwater and the members of the Soulful Symphony and Chorus allowed me to become apart of his dynamic musical creation. You"ve bought class and soul back to the Hipprodrome. Thank You for an unforgetable night !

.....................................................Had a great time

The Soulful Symphony-Motown and Paint Factory was absolutely spectacular! Darin Atwater uniquely expressed the color of culture with his musical excellence. From the first Motown piece to the last Michael Jackson medley, Atwater's compositions and arrangements electrified the audience. I believe he reached the pinnacle of expression, however, with his original composition, "Blue," when right in the middle of a piece dominated by rich minor 7 and 9th chords--he infused the dominant 7 "blues" chords. Brilliant! Darin is indeed an advocate for the arts, and like never before, he bridged the gap between artistic cultures with a unique blend of classical and rap. A musical explosion!

I've never heard such an amazing blend of musical sound, so grateful for the Soulful Symphony experience!

The show was AWESOME !!! I ready enjoyed the hiphop orchestra and the amazing talents of Darin Atwater who happens to be the founder , conductor and composer of the paint factory masterpiece . The soulful symphony is a must see and I will definitely spread the word.

The memory of Motown rocked the Hippodrome.Music was wonderful and clear.

Great music, great singing, great dancing and great conducting.

I recommend everybody of all ages and ethnicities to go to a Soulful Symphony concert at their first opportunity.

Amazing performance! If you have the chance to see the Soulful symphony, GO!!!

After a too long absence, we were finally graced with the return of Darin Atwater and his Soulful Symphony. And soulful they were. My husband and I have seen the ensemble a number of times but never had they brought such joy to our hearts and even tears to our eyes as they did on Saturday night. The musicianship from the players, featured vocalists, and chorus were magnificent! The Motown segment had us singing (quietly:o) along while tapping our feet. The Michael Jackson tribute was pure MJ and made us recognize what a great entertainer we have lost. "Paint Factory" was heard as it had not been heard on its first listening and rendered us misty eyed. The venue our first time there was perfect. The acoustics were superb, the seats comfortable, and the theatre is absolutely beautiful. We are thrilled the symphony has found a new home and look forward to visiting them there often. It was well worth the time, energy and trip (from DC area) to hear them. Soulful Symphony...Welcome Back!

I thought the entire show was absolutely riveting! Mr. Atwater's artistic work had my wife totally captivated from the beginning until the end!

Music has this enormous power to change or set the mood. I have had the pleasure of being in the audience for previous Soulful Symphony concerts, and like the others I did not leave disappointed. The concert was so moving and so uplifting. When Darin sat at the piano and sang....I was moved to tears. Thank you to all of the members of the Soulful Symphony for giving me an eveningof pure enjoyment and for lifting my spirits.

I really enjoyed the variety of music and talent displayed by the director and artists. It was a great blend of past and current music, enjoyed by my daughter, a big MJ fan, and my husband who stayed awake throughout the concert.:-) Thanks for such an enjoyable evening.

The breadth of the music covered was incredible..from Motown to Michael Jackson and back to original Darin Atwater compositions, all with a soulful twist. Any musician or music appreciators would LOVE these shows!

Soulful Symphony was excellent! The show was wonderful

There was so much talent on that stage that I was truly blown away. i can't wait until it comes back. I want to sit through it again and again.

We had seen this symphony at the Myerhoff theatre years ago and it was an absolutely delightful experience. I wanted other members of my family to see them so i spent an incredible amount of money on tickets, assuming to get the same show. Sorely disappointed first of all in the venue, way too hot to get comfortable and we ended up leaving after intermission. Sound on the symphony was too amplified and expected more R&B and less gospel. So wanted this to have been a special night for my grands. Maybe next time

From start to finish, it was simply wonderful!! It was the best concert I've been to in a while and I've been to quite a few!! It was one of those concerts where I had to contain myself as to not disturb my neighbors!!! Excellent musicianship and vocals!!!

Musical entertainers were great but music overpowered their songs.

Wonderful!! So much talent!!! Enjoyed every bit of it!

The show was phenomenal! From start to finish, everything was wonderful!

Darin Atwater and Soulful Symphony/Chorale - guests ... the entire program was amazing! I was sitting between two persons who had NEVER been to his show before (one had heard the DVD). I just kept telling them 'you are going to be amazed.' One of them leaned over to me after the 2nd song and said, 'if you ever come to hear this group again and don't tell me about it, I will hunt you down.' In other words, A NEW CONVERT to attest to the gifts and genius and presentation of Mr. Atwater and his music. Loved the violin soloist ... sent shivers up my spine. And blown away by the piano selection with the awesome keyboard work. I just want MORE! It is never enough! Two requests: can the featured artists stand and be made visible.? We applauded the pianist but from my seat, I could NOT see him or her. can artists' names be listed in the program - and not just announced? I would love to remember the name of the soloists for Superstition and Be Optimistic; the pianist, the violinist. Thanks for your consideration.

The show was awesome! I love the way the Soulful Symphony Orchestra expresses its versatile musicianship. Ruben Studdard is extremely talented. I'm looking forward to the next production.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Soulful Symphony. The music was exquisite, especially the violin section!!! And to top it off, Rueben Studdard was magnificent!!! I saw the Soulful Symphony at the Meyerhoff years ago. I really think the Meyerhoff is a better venue, but the performance was just as stunning! Three cheers for Mr. Atwater!!!

Soulful Symphony was excellent. I can't wait until the next performance. Darin Atwater and the Symphony are the best. I thoroughly enjoyed Ruben Studdard..

There are no words to express how I felt about the show, but I will try. Stupendous, Exhilarating, Soulful, Original, Fantastic, Uplifting, and just plain Overwhelming. The orchestra was great under the superb direction of Mr. Atwater.. The singers were outstanding, especially the soloists. What can I say about Reuben? If I closed my eyes, I would have thought that Luther was right there on stage. I am still talking about it to everyone I know to encourage them to join me during the next season.

The singing was great. The symphony players all so great. And Mr.Ruben Studdard. First tme i went to such a show as this.

Darin and the Symphony never fail to impress. World class

The event was remarkable as always. There is really not much more to say than "remarkable".

This show was outstanding! Very talented musicians perform one-of-a-kind show! This is a must see!

Soulful Symphony was excellent, Ruben Studdard was just the icing on the cake. They are doing great things in the community as well!

The show was great the singers were awesome and the acoustic wonderful.

This event was beyond what I could have imagined. Soulful Symphony played songs that just put you in a place of being overjoyed. Superstition was my favorite song in the first act and the lead vocalist was great. The musicianship and arrangement of the music was beautiful and I was in awe. The second act featured Ruben Studdard and he not only sang beautifully but he looked absolutely wonderful. His voice is heaven sent and he has such a great sense of humor. This event was perfectly titled "So Many Stars" because it was definitely breathtaking.

As a first-time Soulful Symphony Concert attendee, I was overwhelmed by the amount of gifted talent displayed by Conductor Atwater, his skilled musicians and choir members, as well as his invited guest vocalists. Overall, the event was truly one of the best that I have ever witnessed in my life. My mother, wife and son enjoyed the concert as well. Very powerful - a "must see" .

Soulful Symphony - So Many Stars was a night to remember. Darin Atwater is such an accomplished Conductor. He is a pleasure to watch as he flawlessly leads his orchestra in breathtaking compositions. Ruben Studdard was absolutely fantastic. If you closed your eyes, you thought that Luther Vandross was still here with us. The voice similarity was unbelievable! If this performance comes close to you, get your ticket for a musical treat!

Soulful Symphony never disappoints!! Added bonus was Ruben Studdard's superb performance.

Fabulous show. I'm still dreaming about it a week later. The music choices were outstanding and I always enjoy watching the musicians because it seems like they're having a good time. I love that I can hear a symphony in an atmosphere that isn't stuffy.

Enjoyed the show greatly. The singers and musicians were awesome. Ruben was great singing Luther. Enjoyed very much.

The event was more than expected - the composition of songs and the talent of the orchestra, band and singers was amazing. Really enjoyed seeing Ruben Studdard as the guest star. Would definitely see Soulful Symphony again!

The orchestra was unbelievable! And the choir was just as awesome. Soloist were first rate! Musical arrangements were excellent. My only complaint was that the microphones for the soloists needed to be adjusted from time to time because they could not be heard over the music. Other than that, it was a '5 Star' performance!

I have been to most of the Soulful Symphony performances and have never been dissappointed. Cannot wait for the May 3 event.

I enjoyed the show, but think I got spoiled by Soulful Symphony Say Amen Somebody, which I enjoyed much more. The orchestra and vocalists were wonderful.

Was a gift for Mom and Mother of the church. They both had wonderful time.

The phenomenal work of Darin Atwater is considered to be by far one of the most remarkable in this nation and beyond.. His ability to capture the essence of the African diaspora and weave other ethnic music styles into one harmonious voice, is sheer genius.. The concert was diverse, not too long, and most enjoyable. Two suggestions: 1. Start time: it is imperative that paid concert goers are trained for promptness. That is by starting on time.. Anything past the scheduled and prompted start time is deemed late and unprofessional. In essence, start on time!! 2. Balance of background voices and mic snapfu for soloist: did'nt know if there was enough time allotted for orchestra and background vocalists alike. Background voices not audible most times.. Entry of solo voices on microphone cues often missed...

I was disappointed with the performance. Was looking forward to hearing the symphony more than soloist. Out of the 15 set program the symphony played one or two songs with out a soloist. At times I was unable to hear the words while they were singing. If I wanted to go to church i would attended my local church on Sunday for free. Will debate whether or not I will attend another performance.

Darin Atwater and the Soulful Symphony did it again. We had CHURCH!! I loved every song, every singer, every instrumentalist. We were even treated to hear Darrin and Pastor Stephen Jones!! Loved it as usual!

Spiritually uplifting, amazing voices. I highly recommend seeing this performance!

I thoroughly enjoyed the Soulful Symphony"s performance. The orchestra, under the leadership of Mr. Atwater was phenomenal, as was the singing. I found myself singing qnd clapping to the music. It was like being at a real church service and I felt renewed when I left. The weather on the day of the performance was horrendous, both going to and coming home from the show. However, nothing could have deterred me from attending. Looking forward to the holiday show with great anticipation!

We often forget that our town can produce world renowned talent. But I can assure you that many of the members of Soulful Symphony are none other than world renowned and talented. If you get a chance to see them, run; don t walk to the nearest ticket booth, phone or computer to get your tickets. You will be blessed and amazed at the talent of the entire ensemble. Darin Atwater is certianily using the GOD given talent that was bestowed on him.

The combination and blend of the orchestra, jazz band, piano, drum set, guitar, choir, and organ was amazing!

The performance was exhilarating from start to finish. Every singer and musician was amazing. The pieces were brilliantly composed and left me wanting more and more. I have already bought my tickets for the Christmas show. The soulful symphony are well worth every penny and more. If you miss out shame on you!

Darin Atwater and the Soulful Symphony did it again. They fully entertained and dazzled us with their musical brilliance. It was a superb performance! Can't get enough of them. The entire performance was outstanding and soul-stirring! Just wonderful. Really looking forward to December's performance.

Will be back for the Christmas show. The group was amazing and cheerful.

This was the best, most moving concert I've ever attended. Every moment captured my attention. God bless composer Darin Atwater. Next show is December 14th. My wife and I will definitely be there. Keeping you all in prayer.

This was a truly uplifting and inspiring event. The singing was superb and the music was extraordinary! Brother Atwater is truly a musical prodigy who is annointed and gifted by God. I can't wait for the next concert!

Excellent blend of gospel and pop and r & b. Kudos to the conductor. His solo was mesmerizing with beauty and interpretation of the content was excellent. The name of the song?

The varieties of musical selections were awesome! There was a genre for all in attendance. Just a fabulous show. Wish it was more than one show.

Attended Soulful Symphony with my spouse . This was the third performance we attended and i would have to say that it keeps getting better and better . This group is a one of a kind National Treasure. We are looking forward to the next performance. A truly anointed , talented group of individuals.

From the beginning to end of concert a soulful, sensational, and spectacular event with great vocals and an exceptionally talented and responsive orchestra! God Almighty has blessed Darin Atwater with gifts and he's put it together for me to enjoy. Love them!

A must-see. Darrin Atwater is a phenomenal talent with singers and musicians to rival anyone anywhere. I loved the mix of classical, jazz, blues, and pop all in one fabulous evening.

I had no idea what to expect, the music was outstanding, the vocal arrangements were great! This was a pre-birthday treat and I was not disappointed! Mr Atwater is extremely talented and personable. Can't wait for the next performance!

Show was Outstanding. Great vocals and musicians. The conductor, Darrin Atwater was a phenomenal conductor, arranger and performer. This was my first time seeing him but it definitely won't be my last.

The performance was absolutely incredible. The singers were outstanding. Darin Atwater does an excellent job at whatever he undertakes. Superb

The Soulful Symphony was a completely enjoyable experience. Darren Atwater is a musical genius. The orchestra and the singers were Uplifting. I came with a group ages 14 to 82 and both ends of this spectrum were on their feet in jubilation. Some of the songs had my mother in tears they were so beautiful. Fun fun fun. This is our new yearly family event. Wish they could play more often. Two thumbs up!!!! Bravo!!! Encore !!!!

The music covered many genres of music beautifully executed.

Wonderful Show! Outstanding selection of music and choices of soloists. Darin even surprised the audience with his own amazing voice. Just a super event. Looking forward to the next one.

From beginning to end the music took me on an exhilarating trip from Church to an R&B concert. Awesome!

Outstanding performance by Darin Atwater and the Soulful Symphony. Soulful symphony is unlike your usual symphony! Your soul will be STIRRED! You will leave feeling exhilarated and ecstatic! There's music for everyone! There is gospel, motown, blues, jazz. Songs by Barbara Streisand, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Four Tops and many others!! This particular show was a benefit show for the Hippodrome Foundation which provides music mentoring to kids in schools and music camp. Two kids from the camp shared their experiences and their talents. VERY IMPRESSIVE! Wow! you couldn't ask for a better show.

I enjoyed the performance beyond words.. For Every Mountain .. I thought we were about to have good ole sunday morning service. The show started on time and was very well versed. ... Brittany Wright SANNNNG The only thing I was not a fan of was the location. The seats were too close together.. and I could hear the person behind me and in front of me whisper.. just too close for the price of the tickets.. I missed half of the singers because I couldn't see. I only the altos and half of the tenors

I gave the concert five stars because -- as I have come to experience and expect -- I have just NEVER hear that blend, that fusion, of a variety of instruments, musical styles, instruments and voices. I could have sat and listened for another TWO hours. There were so many high points - I loved the composition 'Pink'; I loved the violin solo; I loved 'By the River of Babylon' (not the correct name). I was happy to be able to 'pick out faces' in the choir and orchestra that I saw on the DVD. I loved the students coming on stage. On my way out of the parking garage, I saw a member of the orchestra. I rolled down my window and just told him 'thank you' for blessing my evening -- and the REST of my week. That being said, I do have a few concerns (but the concert STILL gets a 5). One, I did think there was a volume imbalance with the vocalists (I believe they were the altos ... to my right as I faced the stage). In fact, they were so loud at times, I had to hold my right ear ... and I couldn't HEAR 'my' violins on one song. I didn't experience that imbalance of the choral sections last year. Two, WHY in the heck was that violin soloist BURIED in the back RIGHT of the stage? Her work was AWESOME (my second favorite moment). Depending on where you were seated, I'd guess that 80% of the folks didn't see her play OR see her take her bow when she returned to the left side of the stage. Why??? Three, WHEN are we going to be able to purchase more of Mr. Atwater's recordings? I bought the DVD as part of the Maryland Public Television membership campaign. I play it for folks when they come to my house - and they want a copy but don't want to purchase it for $75 for a MPT membership when they live in Nashville, Tennessee. Help!

Simply amazing!!! The talent in this show was mind boggling. Act I alone was a 7 on the richter scale. A must see!!! Best wedding anniversary gift I ever received...Great seats

I laughed, I cried, I was on my feet and to the edge of my seat. Darin Atwater and Souflul Symphony are the greatest!

It was my first time attending a Soulful Symphony event and I had a great time. The musicians were very talented and the singers did justice to Whitney. It was a great show!

We traveled from DC in a torrential rainstorm, and this performance was well worth the trip. Darrin Atwater and the Soulful Symphony delivered an excellent tribute to "Whitney: The Voice." The musical selections covered a wide range of Ms. Houston's career, although there were many more songs we would have liked to hear. The violin renditon (what is this young lady's name!!??) of "I'm Your Baby Tonight" and the drum arrangement of "It's Not Right But It's Ok" gave these songs an entirely new and enjoyable sound. The vocals of "All the Man I Need" and, of course, "I Will Always Love You" were only two of the outstanding solo performances with the chorus lending itself to outstanding background singing. The season has ended, and though we are looking toward next year and the postponed performance of "Ghetto Safari," the Soulful Symphony did not disappoint us with this replacement.

This show was fantastic! I have attended all of the Soulful Symphony concerts this season...and I can not wait for next season.

Wow where should I start, Brother Atwater, there are no words to the talent and vision of this Man, The Orchestra, Magnificent!!!! Bro Mike on the drum solo, Amazing talent blessed by God. The singers were excellent ,Whitney would have been pleased. There is no limit to where Bro. Atwater and his talented symphony can go. It was evident that on one of the stormiest nights in Baltimore there was a full house. Even the umpteen tornado warnings couldn't keep the fans away. I'm so looking forward to next season.