Black Violin comes to Straz Center on February 1
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents Black Violin Classical Boom Tour on Thursday, Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m. in Ferguson Hall, sponsored by Publix Super Market Charities.
Take one violin, one viola, add a DJ and a drum kit, and you have the four forces needed to become Black Violin, the South Florida hip-hop, Brahms-playing quartet that has been on the roster with everyone from Wu Tang Clan to The Eagles. They’re as likely to improv a Top 40 club hit as they are to perform with the virtuosity of concert soloists. This is not a violin concert, but a block party with violins. Flash photography encouraged. Hands in the air required.
Black Violin is composed of classically trained violist and violinist Wil B. and Kev Marcus, who combine their classical training and hip-hop influences to create a distinctive multi-genre sound that is often described as “classical boom.” Black Violin has shared stages with top names including Kanye West, Aerosmith and Tom Petty, and has creatively collaborated with the likes of Wyclef Jean and Alicia Keys.
The duo composed music for the television series Pitch, in addition to appearances on HBO’s Ballers, The Tonight Show, Tavis Smiley Show, The Wendy Williams Show and The Ellen Show. After serving as the house band for the ESPN’s hosted 82nd Annual Heisman Memorial Trophy Presentation, the network recently selected Black Violin’s track “Stereotypes” to promote the upcoming 2017 U.S. Open.
Black Violin is currently writing and recording their next studio album, due out in 2018. The band’s most recent record, Stereotypes, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Classical Crossover Chart and No. 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.”
Regularly priced tickets for the Thursday, Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m. performance by Black Violin are $25-$50 and may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827) or 800.955.1045 outside Tampa Bay, in person at the Straz Center Ticket Sales Office or online at www.strazcenter.org. Handling fees will apply. For more information about the Straz Center for the Performing Arts and its upcoming events, please visit the Straz Center’s website at www.strazcenter.org.
