Baroque Band Ruckus and Bass-Baritone Davóne Tines Commemorate America's 250th Anniversary

Unique program fuses early music with American roots, exploring the country's revolutionary past and present.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:07pm by Ben Kaplan

The baroque band Ruckus and acclaimed singer Davóne Tines have created an extraordinary program commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Through a fusion of early music and American roots, the performance explores the country's revolutionary past and present, asking the question "What is your hand in this?" as the nation continues its quest for a better world.

Why it matters

As America marks a major milestone in its history, this performance aims to acknowledge the ongoing work of the "fragile American experiment" and call for compassion and unity, even as the country grapples with its complex past and present.

The details

Ruckus, a baroque band with a fresh, visceral approach, is fusing the early music movement's creative spirit with the grit, groove, and jangle of American roots music. Joined by path-breaking singer Davóne Tines, the program "What is Your Hand in This?" features a diverse repertoire spanning four centuries, including reimagined songs, hymns, and ballads.

  • The performance is scheduled for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
  • Ruckus and Davóne Tines' program will be presented on February 6, 2026.

The players

Ruckus

A baroque band with a fresh, visceral approach that aims to fuse the early music movement's questing, creative spirit with the grit, groove, and jangle of American roots music.

Davóne Tines

A path-breaking singer and creator who is collaborating with Ruckus on the program "What is Your Hand in This?" to commemorate America's 250th anniversary.

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What’s next

The performance by Ruckus and Davóne Tines is scheduled for February 6, 2026, as part of the 250th anniversary celebrations of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The takeaway

This unique collaboration between the baroque band Ruckus and acclaimed singer Davóne Tines aims to commemorate America's revolutionary past and present, exploring the country's ongoing quest for a better world through a fusion of early music and American roots. The performance serves as a timely reflection on the nation's complex history and the continued work of the "fragile American experiment."