5 Questions You Probably Have About “Stardust,” Project Strong Quartet’s Tribute to David Bowie

Fans of David Bowie have never heard his music like this before.

But then, regulars of the Strauss Studio Series have never experienced the Strauss Black Box Theatre like this before.

Rebecca Hamilton, founder and violinist of Project String Quartet, answered some questions from KPAC, sharing some insight into what their October performance has to offer, for Bowie fans and Classical music fans alike. While most have described the Strauss Black Box as a smaller, more intimate setting, Hamilton proposed it will make for a fitting backdrop “as the enveloping blackness creates the perfect environment to evoke the vastness of outer space.”

At first you might wonder: What does outer space have to do with David Bowie?

Fans know Bowie had one of the vastest musical catalogues in music – but there is one “era” this show focuses on.  

“For our upcoming concert,” Hamilton shares. “We're focusing on an era of David Bowie's career best defined by his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, a rock star who acts as a messenger for extraterrestrial beings, embodying themes of space, identity, and transformation. This imaginative, boundary-pushing period is musically intriguing to us, and we love the idea of space and the unknown as sources of inspiration.”

KPAC: What selection of songs can David Bowie fans look forward to in “Stardust”?

“Our program will delve into the imaginative and musically rich landscape of Bowie’s work from this era, featuring iconic songs such as ‘Space Oddity,’ ‘Changes,’ ‘Rebel Rebel,’ ‘Life on Mars,’ and ‘Starman.’ These pieces capture the essence of Bowie’s fascination with the cosmos and the unknown.’ 

But Bowie isn’t the only artist this celestial show will pay tribute to…

“Additionally,” Rebecca continues. “We will explore the broader theme of space in music by including selections from other artists inspired by the mysteries of the universe. You can look forward to hearing ‘Under Pressure’ (a collaboration with Queen), Elton John's ‘Rocket Man,’ and The Beatles' ‘Across the Universe,’ as well as selections from classical composer Gustav Holst's ‘The Planets,’ particularly ‘Mars.’ This concert will not only honor David Bowie's incredible legacy but also celebrate the universal allure of space that has inspired countless artists across genres and generations.” 

But let’s backtrack. Who are the artists of Project String Quartet?

According to their website, Project String Quartet is a premier ensemble known for their exceptional artistry and electrifying live performances. Based in St. Louis, this talented string quartet brings a fresh perspective to both timeless classics and modern hits. Hailing from prestigious institutions like Juilliard and Oxford, each member brings a wealth of talent and experience, creating a powerhouse of musical brilliance.

With star-studded credits of their own, their own bios read like a blend of the stars of modern music along with the classical.

Search Project String Quartet and you’ll find similar classical interpretations of a wide variety of artists, from Meghan Trainor, Lil Wayne, Elton John, and Marvin Hamlisch.  

KPAC: So if Project String Quartet has a wide variety of artists they cover, what led to the decision to dedicate an entire show to Bowie specifically?

“Bowie's music is a perfect fit for PSQ's mission of reinterpreting popular music through a classical lens,” Rebecca explains. “His work spans a vast array of styles and genres, each piece offering a fresh and intriguing challenge. While his music is undeniably experimental, it also has a broad, universal appeal that resonates with a wide audience. Bowie's ability to continually reinvent himself while maintaining an indelible legacy is nothing short of inspirational.”

KPAC: And what has sparked an interest in this specific area of his musical catalogue?

“The year 2024 has brought a renewed interest in outer space, sparked by the much-anticipated solar eclipse. This celestial event captivated the public's imagination and inspired a collective sense of wonder about the cosmos. We found it timely to delve into Bowie's space-themed music during this period of heightened fascination with the universe. His ability to weave themes of space and the unknown into his music aligns perfectly with the current zeitgeist.

By focusing on Bowie, we aim to pay tribute to an artist who not only pushed the limits of what music could be but also created works that are timeless and beloved. Our goal is to honor his incredible contributions to music and bring our own unique perspective to his extraordinary catalog. Join us as we celebrate the enduring genius of David Bowie, an artist like no other, in a performance inspired by both his legacy and the cosmic wonders that continue to inspire us all.”

KPAC: What do you want audiences to know about your classical interpretation of Bowie’s music?

“Our interpretations strive to capture the innovative spirit of Bowie's music,” Hamilton explains. “Blending the rich traditions of classical music with the avant-garde elements that defined his sound. Each piece has been thoughtfully adapted to showcase the versatility and expressive power of the string quartet, allowing audiences to experience Bowie's music in a setting that is both intimate and expansive.”

Whether a fan of Bowie or a fan of classical interpretations, Project String Quartet’s performance is sure to evoke a renewed sense of wonder, with one form of musical timelessness paying tribute to another.

Experience the Strauss like you’ve never experienced it before and buy your tickets today!