February 20th, 2024 marks the official launch of a multi-faceted collaboration between Balenciaga and the late award-winning American composer and arranger Angelo Badalamenti (March 22nd, 1937–December 11th, 2022).
The project began in May 2020, before Badalamenti’s passing, and is being released as a tribute in his honor in partnership with his alma-mater, Manhattan School of Music, and his daughter, Danielle Badalamenti.
As part of the Balenciaga Music Series, an original playlist that was hand-selected by Badalamenti featuring a compilation of his own works will be available to stream or download at balenciaga.com/angelobadalamenti. Simultaneously, a series of limited-edition Balenciaga Music | Angelo Badalamenti merch will be available in selected stores and on balenciaga.com. T-shirts and crewneck sweatshirts feature a graphic based on Badalamenti’s hand-scripted score, “Torch Theme.” A dedicated campaign that was photographed and filmed in New York at Manhattan School of Music involves some of the school’s students and members of Badalamenti’s family wearing the designs.
This playlist, series, and campaign will also announce a partnership with Manhattan School of Music, the conservatory where Badalamenti received his bachelor’s and master’s degree, and composition department head Dr. Reiko Fueting. As an homage to Badalamenti that in turn teaches students about his impressive oeuvre, this partnership involves the creation of a dedicated master class that invites participants to compose inspired original works to continue the late composer’s legacy. The masterclass, sponsored by Balenciaga, will be offered gratis for students currently attending Manhattan School of Music.
