The Illharmonic Orchestra: Bridging Hip-Hop and Classical Music

The Illharmonic Orchestra is an innovative musical group that seamlessly blends hip-hop and classical music to create unique performances. This ensemble features Kaleb Cabell, Andrea Coln McNeill, and Jeffrey McNeill, among others, and they recently made an appearance at NPR’s Washington headquarters.

Jeffrey McNeill, a vocalist and composer, recalls discovering the connection between hip-hop and classical music in 1987. At the time, he was a child taking flute and piano lessons. His father introduced him to The Sugarhill Gang’s ‘Rapper’s Delight.’ When his brother brought home the Beastie Boys’ ‘Paul Revere,’ McNeill noticed its compatibility with Beethoven’s 5th Symphony.

Decades later, the harmonious combination of these genres, along with McNeill’s partnership with Andrea Coln McNeill, has led to the creation of The Illharmonic Orchestra. Known as “Thee Phantom,” McNeill and Coln McNeill, referred to as “The Phoenix,” perform with live orchestral elements, including horns, woodwinds, strings, and percussion. The ensemble is composed of all-Black musicians dedicated to representing diversity in classical music.

Andrea Coln McNeill highlights the importance of showcasing that hip-hop and classical music are not as distinct as commonly perceived. During an interview with NPR’s Juana Summers, she emphasized the lack of diversity in some major symphony orchestras, despite the presence of talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. She expresses the significance of having musicians who resemble them, with formal training and self-taught skills, and the impact it has on audiences.

Jeffrey McNeill views The Illharmonic performances as community experiences that transform audiences while providing enjoyment. He describes it as a “house party in a concert hall,” where people connect with the music and see themselves reflected in the performers on stage. This connection has been essential to the group’s continued success.

Before performing at the Lincoln Theater in Washington, D.C., The Illharmonic Orchestra visited NPR for a special performance. The audio of this performance was engineered by Andie Huether and Tiffany Vera Castro.

The performers included Andrea Coln McNeill, vocalist; Jeffrey McNeill, vocalist; Tauhida Smith, violin; Leanne Holmes, violin; Jillian Uzuegbu, violin; Tara Cuffee, viola; Kaleb Cabell, cello; Robert Chittams, bass; Alissa Gittens, flute/piccolo; Ronnal Ford, saxophone/flute; Xavier Hendon, trumpet; Robert McIver, trumpet; Tim Johnson, trombone; and Ashlei Peoples, keyboards.