Bodies at Risk: Black Violin

Friday, October 2, 2020 7:00 p.m. ET,
Live Virtual Performance with post-show conversation
 

Black Violin is led by classically trained string players Wil B. (viola) and Kev Marcus (violin). The band uses their unique blend of classical and hip-hop music, often described as “classical boom," to overcome stereotypes and encourage people of all ages, races, and economic backgrounds to join together to break down cultural barriers. As part of their engagement, Wil and Kev offer a special live virtual concert followed by a post-show conversation on the state of Black music and art in the U.S. today moderated by African American studies scholar Stephanie Shonekan.

Black Violin released their latest studio album, Take the Stairs, on November 1, 2019. The record debuted at #1 on the Billboard Classical Chart, #1 on the Billboard Classical Crossover Chart, #7 on Billboard’s Top New Artists Chart, and #9 on the Billboard Hip Hop and R&B Chart. Their last record, Stereotypes also debuted #1 on Classical Crossover Chart and #4 on the Billboard R&B Chart. NPR praised the album and band, saying “their music will keep classical music alive for the next generation.” Some of their creative collaborations include Kanye West, Wu-Tang Clan, Wyclef Jean, Lil Wayne, and Alicia Keys.

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Bodies at Risk is a series of creative conversations between BIPOC performing artists, educators, activists, and other experts working to shift American society’s understanding of the racialized body and social justice. These events aim to engage, move, and surprise audiences through artistic demonstration and intellectual curiosity. Artist and audience chat included in each event.