The 2025 Charlotte Ideas Festival featuring Matt Russo

Can planets carry a tune? Do black holes scream? What is the heartbeat of a star? The universe may not be as silent as we once thought.

Join Dr. Matt Russo—astrophysicist, musician, and NASA collaborator—for a mind-expanding journey through the sounds of space. Using the science of sonification, Dr. Russo transforms cosmic phenomena into mesmerizing soundscapes, revealing the hidden harmonies of the cosmos. 

Discover how he blends astronomy and music to make space more accessible and how sound connects us to the vast, mysterious universe—and to one another. Whether you're a space enthusiast, a music lover, or simply curious, this unique event will change the way you experience the cosmos. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of science, art, and wonder!

Event ticket: $40 We're proud to offer this event with the generosity of our sponsors and community partners.

Time: Registration & Reception: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Program: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: McColl Center, 721 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202

About the Charlotte Ideas Festival: The Charlotte Ideas Festival is a multi-day exploration of today’s pressing ideas and issues through the lens of the humanities. This year’s conversation-packed events feature a range of thinkers, innovators and community members engaged in connection and conversation. A program of The Charlotte Center for the Humanities & Civic Imagination (The Charlotte Center), the Charlotte Ideas Festival is part of the three-week Charlotte SHOUT! festival celebrating Food, Art, Music, and Ideas.

About The Charlotte Center: The Charlotte Center for the Humanities & Civic Imagination (The Charlotte Center) is a community forum and civic action catalyst that invites people into meaningful connection and problem-solving informed by deep consideration of the human experience. Our mission is to help people and communities flourish. The Charlotte Center is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. We are interested in what is good for Charlotte and what Charlotte can offer the world. We invite you to join us! thecharlottecenter.org

About Charlotte SHOUT! Charlotte SHOUT! is a multi-week festival designed to showcase our community by celebrating Charlotte's creativity and innovation through art, music, food, and ideas. Located primarily in Uptown Charlotte, SHOUT! will feature exceptionally curated programming from around the corner and around the world.