Mos Def is classying his act up a bit with a performance alongside the Brooklyn Philharmonic as part of the New Sounds Live event Wednesday at the World Financial Center. The New York show will feature the hip-hop artist with the Brooklyn Youth Chorus, singer Mellissa Hughes and other musical guests who will take the stage with the Brooklyn Philharmonic Chambers Players. Mos Def and the Chambers Players will also perform composer Derek Bermel's arrangements of Def's original songs as well as 19th century Shape Note singing and pieces by David T. Little and Lev Zhurbin.

The free event will give attendees a sampling of what to expect during the 2011-2012 season by playing shortened versions of what the full orchestra will perform during the upcoming year. For more information, visit artsworldfinancialcenter.com.