Group merges string arrangements with modern beats and vocals

The innovative and dynamic duo, Black Violin, will perform at the Wachholz College Center on Sunday, Oct. 6. 

Tickets for the event celebrating the 20th anniversary of Black Violin are already available. 

The groundbreaking duo has captivated audiences around the globe; harmoniously merging the sophistication of classical melodies with the rhythmic pulse of hip-hop.

Experience the evolution of Black Violin from their humble beginnings to widespread acclaim with a show that promises to inspire the audience while leaving them energized, and uplifted. Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste take the stage, along with Nat Stokes on drums, DJ SPS on the turntable, and Liston Gregory on the keys — blending classical strings with hip-hop beats through a performance that defies expectations and redefines genres.

Kev and Wil illustrate the journey of their 20-year career, highlighting the moments that shaped them into the musical trailblazers they are today — from high school orchestra classmates to triumphant winners at Showtime at the Apollo to captivating headline performers and music education advocates.

Black Violin’s 2019 album release, “Take the Stairs,” earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. The band also recently received their second-ever Grammy Award nomination for the track “The Message” as Best Americana Performance, in collaboration with The Blind Boys of Alabama.

Black Violin plays roughly 200 shows a year; many of which are performances for young, low-income students in urban communities. In the last year alone, the group has played for over 100,000 students with the goal of challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions of what a “classical musician” looks and sounds like.  

“The stereotypes are always there, embedded so deep in our culture,” Wil says. “Just by nature of our existence, we challenge those ideas. It’s a unique thing that brings people together who aren’t usually in the same room, and in the current climate, it’s good to bring people together.”

With new music that pushes boundaries and revitalized classics that have stood the test of time, the show is a testament to the duo's growth, passion, and dedication to their craft.

Black Violin’s BV20: Then &  Now will celebrate two decades of music that has touched the hearts and souls of fans worldwide.

For more information, contact the Wachholz College Center at wccmt.org or call the ticket office at 406-756-1400.