Question 1

What is Classical Not Classical?

Accepted Answer

Classical Not Classical™ is a reimagined symphonic concert experience created by Carnegie Hall soloist Michael Rainwater. It replaces the traditional vocalist with the piano as the emotional and theatrical center of the concert, featuring original orchestral arrangements of iconic pop and rock anthems performed live with full orchestra. The show blurs the line between symphony hall and rock arena.

Question 2

Who is Michael Rainwater?

Accepted Answer

Michael Rainwater is a Carnegie Hall soloist and cross-genre pianist who created Classical Not Classical. His debut arrangement of 'Great Balls of Fire' earned over 100,000 organic views, and his mission is to restore the orchestra as a 'third space', a gathering ground for awe, joy, and connection across generations.

Question 3

How can I book Classical Not Classical for my orchestra or venue?

Accepted Answer

Classical Not Classical is available for booking by orchestras, presenters, venues, festivals, and sponsors. Contact management at rickkanfer@me.com or call 770-530-8031. The show offers turnkey production with pre-aligned scores, parts, and stems, flexible ensemble sizing from chamber orchestra to full orchestra with lighting and projections.

Question 4

What music is performed in Classical Not Classical?

Accepted Answer

Classical Not Classical features original orchestral arrangements of iconic pop and rock anthems by artists including Stevie Wonder, Led Zeppelin, Elvis Presley, Bon Jovi, The Buggles, Simon & Garfunkel, Queen, Jerry Lee Lewis, Billy Joel, and Guns N' Roses. All arrangements are original compositions by Michael Rainwater. This is not a tribute act or medley show.

Question 5

What makes Classical Not Classical different from other pops concerts?

Accepted Answer

Unlike traditional pops concerts that feature a guest vocalist or film projection, Classical Not Classical puts the piano and orchestra at the center. All arrangements and concepts are original, giving orchestras exclusivity in their market. The show is designed to attract first-time symphony-goers while delighting existing subscribers, bridging generations through iconic repertoire reimagined for the concert hall.

Question 6

What does the orchestra need to provide for a Classical Not Classical performance?

Accepted Answer

Classical Not Classical is a turnkey production. Pre-aligned scores, parts, and stems are provided to minimize rehearsal time. The show is designed for flexible ensemble sizing, from chamber orchestra to full orchestra, with optional lighting and projection packages. All orchestral charts are transcribed by Musical Director Joe Escriba, ensuring performance-ready materials for any ensemble configuration.

Question 7

What ensemble sizes does Classical Not Classical support?

Accepted Answer

Classical Not Classical is scored for flexible ensemble configurations ranging from chamber orchestra to full symphony orchestra with rhythm section. The production adapts to your venue and ensemble, with pre-aligned scores and parts provided for each configuration. Contact management for specific instrumentation details and tech rider information.

Question 8

Is Classical Not Classical available for educational programming and outreach?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Classical Not Classical pairs with educational outreach programs including masterclasses, pre-concert talks, and workshops demonstrating how classical craft underpins modern popular music. These programs serve as a contemporary counterpart to Bernstein's Young People's Concerts, bridging generations and introducing new audiences to orchestral music through familiar repertoire.

Question 9

Is it 'Classical Not Classical' or 'Classical Non Classical'?

Accepted Answer

The correct name is 'Classical Not Classical' (with 'Not', not 'Non'). Classical Not Classical™ is a trademarked brand name created by Carnegie Hall pianist Michael Rainwater. It is sometimes misspelled as 'classical non classical' or 'classicalnotclassical', but the official name uses 'Not' to emphasize that this symphonic concert experience is deliberately not classical in the traditional sense. It reimagines the orchestra through pop and rock music.

Question 10

Where can I see Classical Not Classical perform live?

Accepted Answer

The world premiere of Classical Not Classical is scheduled for Fall 2026. Following the premiere, Classical Not Classical will be available for booking by orchestras, venues, and festivals worldwide. Visit classicalnotclassical.com/booking to inquire about bringing the show to your stage.

Question 11

Who created Classical Not Classical?

Accepted Answer

Classical Not Classical was created by Michael Rainwater, a Carnegie Hall soloist and cross-genre pianist from Georgia. Michael Rainwater is both the creator and star performer of Classical Not Classical, performing original orchestral arrangements of iconic pop and rock songs with full symphony orchestra.

Don't Stop Me Now

Great Balls of Fire

Michael Rainwater

The Orchestra Restored to the Foreground

A Flagship Event That Delivers

Audience Development

Turnkey Production

Educational Synergy

Book the Show

Classical Not Classical™ by Michael Rainwater. A Reimagined Symphonic Concert Experience Where the Piano Becomes the Pop Star