The Berlin Academy of American Music (BAAM), a collective of international musicians based in one of Europe’s most vital cultural capitals, offers a distinct, open-minded, and imaginative perspective on American music. Through vibrant new voices and unforgettable programs, the orchestra seeks to elevate American music, spotlight contemporary European composers, and deepen transatlantic ties.

At the heart of BAAM’s artistic vision is a commitment to collaboration, meaningful exchange, and a diverse, creative environment. Formed at the height of the pandemic by conductor Garrett Keast, BAAM was conceived as a way to explore deeper connections between music, performers, and audiences. With each performance, BAAM brings the dynamic energy and rhythmic vitality of American music to the global classical stage while promoting its relevance far beyond U.S. borders.

Transatlantic, the orchestra’s debut recording, received five-star ratings from BBC Music Magazine, Limelight Magazine, and das Orchester. The album reflects BAAM’s signature programming: a fusion of iconic, contemporary, and new works. Since its 2021 “highly auspicious recording debut” (Fanfare Magazine), the orchestra has performed annually for sold-out audiences in Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, received multiple touring invitations – including to the Enescu Festival – and launched a new contemporary series at the Konzerthaus Berlin.

Recent repertoire highlights include the European premieres of Missy Mazzoli’s Bright with Excessive Dark and Caroline Shaw’s Watermark Concerto, as well as classics such as Bernstein’s Fancy Free Suite, Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, and Stravinsky’s Danses concertantes. Looking ahead, the orchestra is preparing for several engagements across Europe, a recording focused on the works of Carter and Mumford, the performance of multiple world premieres, and the launch of the new Berlin Transatlantic Festival – a week-long initiative celebrating musical dialogues between continents in 2026-2027.