Detroit Opera orchestra to perform the music of George Clinton and Parliament‑Funkadelic.

The Detroit Opera will present 'Symphonic PFunk' this weekend, with arranger Ray Chew conducting a 47‑player orchestra adapting Parliament‑Funkadelic songs; George Clinton said he had long expected the music to move into classical spaces.

The Detroit Opera will present 'Symphonic PFunk: Celebrating the Music of Parliament Funkadelic' this weekend, featuring orchestral arrangements of songs from George Clinton's catalog. Ray Chew is the arranger and conductor for the project. The concert adapts funk material for a full orchestra while retaining elements of the original band's sound and staging. George Clinton said he had expected the group's music to find its way into classical settings. Key details: - The event is billed as 'Symphonic PFunk' and is scheduled for this weekend in Detroit. - Ray Chew arranged the music and will conduct a 47‑player orchestra for the performance; he suggested this may be the first time an orchestra has played P‑Funk's catalog. - The ensemble includes a full string section, harp and saxophones, and about a half‑dozen additional musicians such as a keyboardist and guitarists will join on stage. - The article notes P‑Funk's history of complex arrangements and theatrical live shows, including the original "Mothership" stage prop and a new version under construction. - George Clinton, now in his 80s, said he had long anticipated this kind of orchestral interpretation and is also reported to be working on new albums. Summary: The project translates Parliament‑Funkadelic material into orchestral textures, emphasizing the layered arrangements and instrumental colors already present in the music. The performance is set for this weekend in Detroit with Ray Chew leading the 47‑player ensemble, and George Clinton remains active with new recordings and touring plans.