Orchestral Masterpieces and Avant-Garde Art: What’s On in Baltimore Today

Discover Baltimore’s Cultural Pulse This Thursday

Welcome to your daily guide for Thursday, January 29, 2026. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in the soaring sounds of the symphony, catch a premiere screening of local student films, or explore a brand-new art exhibition, Charm City has an impressive lineup for this late-January evening. From the historic halls of Mount Vernon to the vibrant stages of Highlandtown, here is what is happening today in Baltimore.

Classical Excellence at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra takes center stage tonight at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Beginning at 7:30 PM, the orchestra presents a powerful program featuring the works of Rachmaninoff and Shostakovich. This performance is a must-see for classical music enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the emotional complexity and technical brilliance of these legendary composers. The acoustics of the Meyerhoff provide the perfect backdrop for an evening of world-class musicianship.

Art and Film in the Cultural District

It is a significant day for the local arts community with two major events occurring within walking distance of each other:

• Ouroboros Exhibition Opening: The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) hosts the opening reception for its latest exhibition, "Ouroboros," at the Meyerhoff Gallery in the Fox Building. From 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, visitors can explore works from eleven artists that examine the deep, often complex connections between the institution and the city of Baltimore. This event is free and open to the public.
• Student Film Screening: The Walters Art Museum is hosting a special screening of short films created by students from the Baltimore School for the Arts. Running from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, the event includes a student-moderated Q&A session, offering a unique glimpse into the next generation of Baltimore’s cinematic talent.

Live Jazz and Independent Beats

For those looking for a more intimate musical experience, the city’s jazz and independent venues are buzzing tonight. Creative Alliance in Highlandtown presents "The Jazz Room: Tribute to Soul" starting at 9:00 PM, a night dedicated to the groove and spirit of soul music. Meanwhile, at Keystone Korner, the Greg Hatza ORGANization performs at 7:00 PM, bringing high-energy organ jazz to the heart of Harbor East.

If your tastes lean toward the heavier side of the spectrum, Metro Gallery features a performance by Left To Suffer starting at 7:00 PM. Alternatively, the historic Ottobar in North Baltimore hosts The Soularites, offering a local flavor to the Thursday night circuit.

Current Museum Highlights

If you prefer a quiet afternoon before the evening’s festivities, the Baltimore Museum of Art remains a top destination. The highly acclaimed "American Sublime" exhibition by Amy Sherald continues to draw crowds, featuring her iconic portraiture. Additionally, Sir John Akomfrah’s immersive video installation, "The Hour of the Dog," is currently on view, providing a poignant look at civil rights history through a six-screen cinematic experience.