Singer and trained flutist Lizzo gave Washingtonians more than they bargained for at her Capital One Arena concert Tuesday, Sept. 27, when she played founding father and former President James Madison’s crystal flute on stage.
“YALL.. THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS LET ME PLAY THEIR HISTORIC 200 YEAR OLD CRYSTAL FLUTE ON STAGE TONIGHT,” Lizzo wrote on her Instagram, “NO ONE HAS EVER HEARD WHAT IT SOUNDS LIKE… NOW YOU DO.”
Prior to the concert, the Grammy-winning singer visited the Library of Congress alongside the institution’s musical instrument curator, Carol Lynn Ward-Bamford.
Lizzo was able to examine the library’s woodwind collection, receiving permission to try out Madison’s flute prior to her performance, as well as a piccolo that belonged to Philip Sousa.
“We just made history tonight!” Lizzo said after performing at her show, according to a press release. “Thank you to the Library of Congress for preserving our history and making history freaking cool! History is freaking cool you guys!”