On Rock Day, discover how the Ramacrisna Orchestra combines attitude and inclusion in unforgettable performances with orchestrated rock classics.
When you think of an orchestra, it is common to imagine formal concerts and classical repertoires. But just listen to the first chords of the Ramacrisna Philharmonic Orchestra to realize that it defies these expectations. And that is precisely why, on this Rock Day, it stands out. Because it incorporates the energy, boldness, and rebelliousness of this genre in each performance — all without sacrificing musical quality and social transformation.
Created in 2005, the orchestra was born with seven violins and the desire to change lives through art. Today, with about 50 members, the group has thrilled thousands of people on stages such as CCBB, Palácio das Artes, Cine Theatro Brasil Vallourec, and Teatro Bradesco, for example. Always presenting various types of music. But more than collecting applause, the Ramacrisna Orchestra collects stories of overcoming adversity.
Over two decades of existence, the Ramacrisna Philharmonic Orchestra has grown and reinvented itself. Its repertoire ranges from Tom Jobim to Clube da Esquina, from movie soundtracks to jazz classics, for example. And, of course, rock has a guaranteed place — with original arrangements that bring emotion and power to the stage.
Artists such as Seu Jorge, Fernanda Takai, Flávio Venturini, Lô Borges, and Céu have shared the stage with the orchestra. In October 2024, the celebration of the 65th anniversary of the Ramacrisna Institute featured a special appearance by Seu Jorge at the Grande Theatro Unimed-BH, with a show that received a standing ovation. The Palácio das Artes hosted a show dedicated to Clube da Esquina, reaffirming the group’s versatility.
In addition, the Ramacrisna Orchestra is more than just a musical spectacle. It is a tool for transformation. Through music, young people learn discipline, teamwork, expression, and, above all, discover a new horizon of possibilities. The project is one of many initiatives by the Ramacrisna Institute, which for 66 years has been transforming the lives of children, adolescents, and adults in socially vulnerable situations.
If rock is synonymous with freedom, youth, and rebellion, what could be more fitting than celebrating Rock Day with a show that combines all of this with the power of orchestral music? This is what the new edition of the show “Clássicos do Rock” (Rock Classics) promises, which will be presented on August 15 at the Casa da Cultura Josephina Bento in Betim, with free admission.
With arrangements full of energy and emotion, the repertoire will include icons such as Queen, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Aerosmith, Guns N’ Roses, and Metallica, for example. In addition, the show will also pay tribute to big names in Brazilian rock. The performance will also feature vocalists Ayla Manso, Gabriel Versieux, the vocal quartet Art Music, and guest musicians who will bring even more power to the stage.
The combination of orchestra and rock creates a unique, intense, and engaging experience. The show is designed to thrill and surprise the audience, connecting different generations through music. In addition, the event reaffirms the Ramacrisna Institute’s commitment to providing access to quality culture in different territories.
The performance is part of the orchestra’s 20th anniversary celebrations. The party also featured a special festival on June 26 and 27 at the institute’s headquarters. The program included shows with Grupo Trampulim, Trio Amaranto, and a night dedicated to jazz, showcasing the artistic and educational diversity of the project.
On this Rock Day, the orchestra shows that the attitude that drives this style also drives dreams. And, between guitar solos and violin bows, what really echoes is the certainty that art can—and should—be accessible, pluralistic, and transformative. Attend the concert and help this project go further.
Service: Rock Classics – Ramacrisna Philharmonic Orchestra
Date: August 15, at 7 p.m.
Location: Casa da Cultura Josephina Bento (Av. Padre Osório Braga, 18 – Centro, Betim)
Free tickets: available via Sympla
