The Journey of Black Violin: Merging Classical and Contemporary
For 16 years, Black Violin members Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste have been at the forefront of a musical revolution, blending classical string arrangements with modern beats and vocals. Their journey began in an orchestra class at Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, where they honed their skills on the violin and viola. This classical training laid the foundation for their unique sound, which they later developed while producing beats for South Florida rappers and performing in local clubs.
Their breakthrough came in 2005 when they won the iconic Showtime at the Apollo, a moment that catapulted them into the national spotlight. Since then, they have sold out headline performances across the country, including a notable two-night run at The Kennedy Center in 2018. Their innovative approach—melding hip-hop with classical music—has garnered attention from major artists and organizations, leading to collaborations with icons like Alicia Keys and Wu-Tang Clan. NPR praised their work, stating that “their music will keep classical music alive for the next generation.”
Challenging Stereotypes Through Music
Black Violin is not just about music; it’s about breaking down barriers and challenging societal stereotypes. The duo performs over 200 shows a year, with many aimed at young, low-income students in urban communities. In the past year alone, they have reached over 100,000 students, aiming to redefine what a “classical musician” looks and sounds like. Wil Baptiste emphasizes the importance of their mission, stating, “The stereotypes are always there, embedded so deep in our culture. Just by nature of our existence, we challenge those ideas.”
Their performances create a unique atmosphere that brings together diverse audiences who might not typically share a space. In a world often divided, Black Violin strives to unite people through the power of music, fostering understanding and appreciation across different cultures and backgrounds.
The Black Violin Foundation: Empowering Youth Through Music
Recently, Black Violin established the Black Violin Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth by providing access to quality music programs. The foundation believes that music education should be accessible to all, regardless of race, gender, or socio-economic status. Their inaugural initiative, the Musical Innovation Grant for Continuing Education, will offer scholarships to young music students, enabling them to attend programs that nurture their creativity and innovation.
These scholarships can be used for a variety of music-related opportunities, including private lessons, summer camps, and college courses. The foundation plans to award scholarships bi-annually to up to 20 applicants, ensuring that talented young musicians have the resources they need to thrive and succeed in their musical endeavors.
Upcoming Releases and Tour Dates
The duo’s latest album features an exciting tracklist that showcases their signature blend of genres, including songs like “Rise,” “Unbreakable,” and “Dreamer.” As they continue to tour, Black Violin remains committed to their mission of inspiring the next generation of musicians. Their upcoming tour dates span various cities, including stops in Midland, Oklahoma City, and Los Angeles, promising electrifying performances that celebrate their unique sound and message.
For more information about their music and initiatives, visit the Black Violin Foundation’s website at blackviolinfoundation.org.
Through their innovative music and dedication to education, Black Violin is not only transforming the landscape of classical music but also creating a lasting impact on the lives of young musicians across the country.
