Hold onto your tickets, music lovers! Ben Folds, the piano-pounding, witty wordsmith known for his emotionally charged melodies and razor-sharp songwriting, is back with news that’ll make your heart sing. Forget everything you thought you knew about his solo gigs, because in 2025, Folds is taking his artistry to a whole new level, joining forces with symphony orchestras for a series of unforgettable performances.
This isn’t your typical orchestral accompaniment; it’s a transformative experience, where Folds’ signature piano narratives are amplified by the lush sounds of a full symphony. Prepare to be swept away by a tidal wave of emotion as his timeless hits and new compositions take on breathtaking new dimensions.
This is more than just a concert; it’s a Jobaaj story waiting to be told.
Ben Folds Confirms 2025 Tour with Solo & Symphony Gigs
The highly anticipated 2025 tour by Ben Folds, featuring a blend of solo performances, orchestral collaborations, and the fan-favorite Paper Airplane Request Tour, promises to showcase Folds’ unique piano-rock style, beloved tracks, and engaging interactions with his audience. This tour is set to kick off on March 18-19, 2025, at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri.
Kansas City, Missouri (March 2025)
The Opening Night Show
The tour will begin with a special performance at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, featuring a solo show by Ben Folds. This intimate concert will set the tone for the rest of the tour.
Orchestral Collaborations
Folds will also perform with the Kansas City Symphony, marking the first time the two institutions have collaborated on stage.
Paper Airplane Request Tour
The tour will include the innovative Paper Airplane Request Tour, allowing fans to write song requests on paper airplanes and toss them onto the stage, creating thrilling spontaneous performances.
Other Cities and Venues
Johnson City, Tennessee (April 11)
Folds will perform a solo show at the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts, featuring a unique opportunity to experience his artistry in a more intimate setting.
Marietta, Ohio (April 12)
Folds will perform a solo show at the The Peoples Bank Theatre, showcasing his piano-rock style in a more intimate setting.
Detroit, Michigan (May 23-24)
Folds will perform solo shows at Orchestra Hall, offering fans the chance to experience his artistry in a more intimate setting.
Omaha, Nebraska (May 9-10)
Folds will perform a solo show at the Holland Performing Arts Center, showcasing his piano-rock style in a more intimate setting.
Wausau, Wisconsin (May 4)
Folds will perform a solo show at the Grand Theater, offering fans the chance to experience his artistry in a more intimate setting.
Cincinnati, Ohio (May 18)
Folds will perform a solo show at the Cincinnati Music Hall, featuring a unique opportunity to experience his artistry in a more intimate setting.
Relationship with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra
Folds will also perform with the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, making his 10th appearance with the orchestra. This collaboration marks the first time the two institutions have performed together, and will showcase Folds’ unique piano-rock style in a more intimate setting.
Paper Airplane Request Tour Dates
April 11: Johnson City, TN
Folds will perform the Paper Airplane Request Tour at the ETSU Martin Center for the Arts.
April 12: Marietta, OH
Folds will perform the Paper Airplane Request Tour at the The Peoples Bank Theatre.
April 13: Warren, OH
Folds will perform the Paper Airplane Request Tour at the Robins Theatre.
May 3: Milwaukee, WI
Folds will perform the Paper Airplane Request Tour at the Bradley Symphony Center.
May 4: Wausau, WI
Folds will perform the Paper Airplane Request Tour at the Grand Theater.
May 7: Rochester, MN
Folds will perform the Paper Airplane Request Tour at the CH Mayo Presentation Hall.
Solo Shows
June 13: South Bend, IN
Folds will perform a solo show at the Morris Performing Arts Center.
June 14: Interlochen, MI
Folds will perform a solo show at the Interlochen Center for the Arts.
June 16: Chicago, IL
Folds will perform a solo show at the Symphony Center.
June 18: Rome, NY
Folds will perform a solo show at the Capital Theatre.
June 20: Tarrytown, NY
Folds will perform a solo show at the Tarrytown Music Hall.
June 21: Englewood, NJ
Folds will perform a solo show at the Bergen Performing Arts Center.
June 22: Wilmington, DE
Folds will perform a solo show at the The Grand.
July 22: Portland, ME
Folds will perform a solo show at the State Theatre.
July 23: Rockport, MA
Folds will perform a solo show at the Shalin Liu Performing Arts Center.
July 26: Groton, MA
Folds will perform a solo show at the Groton Hill Music Center.
July 27: Cranston, RI
Folds will perform a solo show at the Park Theatre and Event Center.
Tour Schedule
The tour will take place throughout the summer and fall, concluding on December 2, 2025, at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland, Oregon. The full schedule of the tour is available on Ben Folds’ official website.
Conclusion
Ben Folds’ upcoming 2025 tour promises to be a captivating spectacle, blending his iconic solo piano prowess with the grandeur of a symphony orchestra. As we’ve seen throughout his career, Folds isn’t afraid to experiment and push boundaries, and this tour is a testament to that spirit. By pairing his introspective lyrics and masterful melodies with the sweeping power of a full orchestra, he’s creating a sonic experience that’s both familiar and utterly transformative. This collaboration isn’t just about spectacle; it speaks to the enduring power of music to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Folds’ music, already known for its emotional depth and poignant storytelling, will gain new dimensions when amplified by the orchestral arrangements. This tour has the potential to not only captivate longtime fans but also introduce his music to a whole new generation, proving that his artistry transcends time and genre. As the curtain rises on this unique musical adventure, one thing is certain: Ben Folds will leave an indelible mark on the concert stage, reminding us all of the transformative power of music to move, inspire, and unite.