Classical Unlocked Returns to SXSW Austin to Curate Classical Music for the Mainstage
Classical Unlocked presents this year’s international official showcase for the fourth year running and presents Eric Whitacre’s film ‘Deep Field: The Impossible Magnitude of our Universe’.
In partnership with the Department for Business and Trade and UK House, Classical Unlocked presents a live, multi-part event centred on Deep Field, the landmark collaboration between Eric Whitacre, NASA, Space Telescope Science Institute and 59, a journey studio.
The event features the world premiere of a newly reworked version of the film, combining imagery from the Hubble Space Telescope with bespoke animation, Whitacre’s original score and live narration.
A panel discussion further explores the connections between astrophysics, data and musical composition with a former astronaut and two astrophysicists.
March 14, 2026 - 4pm Eric Whitacre’s Deep Field UK House British Music Embassy, Palm Door on Sixth (Austin, Texas)
Classical Unlocked is returning to SXSW Austin for the fourth year to curate a fresh space for classical music within the mainstream, and to showcase sparky talent, redefining classical music’s presence in modern music culture.
International artists performing in the Classical Unlocked showcase include Les Itinérantes, Suuvi, Jamie Duffy, Kety Fusco, Hania Derej, and Babatunde Hiphopera.
The showcase takes place March 16 at Flamingo Cantina. For performance times see the official SXSW Schedule.
SXSW Austin takes place March 12–18, 2026 offering audiences a week of innovation in the heart of the festival.
For more information follow @classicalunlocked or email thea@classicalunlocked.com
