Students of Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music will roll into Houston’s Third Ward March 27 with The Concert Truck, a mobile stage designed to bring classical music into everyday spaces. The free event begins at 6:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the historic Eldorado Ballroom.
Presented by the Third Ward Cultural District, the performance transforms a 16-foot box truck into a fully equipped concert hall complete with lighting, sound system and piano. The concert will showcase student musicians from the Shepherd School, who will not only perform but also share insight into their instruments, repertoire and training. The unique outdoor venue gives students a chance to hone their public speaking skills and engage with the community in a casual, interactive setting.
Founded in 2016 by pianists Nick Luby and Susan Zhang, The Concert Truck has traveled across the country with a mission to make live music accessible to all. Performances have popped up on city streets and in parks, schools and arts festivals, often in partnership with leading cultural institutions.
This appearance continues a growing relationship between The Concert Truck and the Shepherd School, where students are encouraged to explore musical entrepreneurship and community outreach as part of their training.
The location also adds meaning. Originally built in 1939, the Eldorado Ballroom was a central hub for Black musicians and audiences during Houston’s segregation era. Its recent renovation honors that legacy with a revitalized design that celebrates music and community.
To RSVP for the performance, click here.