Lizzo Just Performed With The New York Philharmonic For The Very First Time
The singer opened YouTube's Dear Class of 2020 by performing the ultimate rendition of "Pomp and Circumstance"
Photo: Getty
Lizzo
- Lizzo started YouTube's Dear Class of 2020 online graduation event on Sunday by playing "Pomp and Circumstance" on her flute.
- She was accompanied by members of the New York Philharmonic orchestra, who appeared with her remotely via video.
- Other celebrities appearing during the event included Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Michelle and Barack Obama, Katy Perry, and Justin Timberlake.
Related article: Beyoncé Pays Tribute To Black Lives Matter In Commencement Speech
Many students graduating in 2020 haven't been able to attend their graduation ceremonies because of the coronavirus pandemic. But that hasn't stopped them from partaking in star-studded virtual celebrations.
In what was perhaps the ultimate graduation ceremony, Sunday's Dear Class of 2020 on YouTube boasted appearances from a slew of superstars including Lady Gaga, who addressed systemic racism and police brutality in her commencement speech; Beyoncé, who encouraged Black women to run their own businesses and challenge the patriarchy; and the Obamas, who helped organize the big event.
Also on hand for the festivities? Lizzo and her flute sidekick. To kick off the celebration, she played a rendition of "Pomp and Circumstance," but that wasn't all. The boss flautist was accompanied by the New York Philharmonic.
Related article: Lizzo Speaks Out About The George Floyd Protests In Minneapolis On Instagram Live
Later, Lizzo's flute took to Instagram (yes, her flute has its own Insta) to commemorate the momentous occasion, writing in all caps, "Congrats Class of 2020." The post continued, "Im the first floot to play w the @nyphilharmonic !!!! 🎙 Black Lives Matter and I love youuuuuu."
Lizzo herself also posted about the event and paid tribute to this year's graduates. She wrote, "Congratulations to the class of 2020. The truth seekers and disrupters of the future! It’s time to not just take on the world, it’s time to create a NEW one with equality for all. Let’s goooooooooooooo! (Thank you @nyphilharmonic for making my high school dream come true) @sashabefluting ✊🏾 musical direction @q_thervandross."
Related article: Kanye West Launches A College Fund For George Floyd's Daughter
This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.