Black Violin

For nearly two decades, Black Violin—featuring Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste—has been merging classical string arrangements with modern beats to defy genres and build community. Classically trained on violin and viola, the duo met in high school orchestra class in Fort Lauderdale and went on to win Showtime at the Apollo in 2005. Since then, they’ve performed across the country, including a sold-out two-night run at The Kennedy Center, and earned praise from NPR for keeping classical music alive for a new generation.

Their 2019 album Take the Stairs earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, and in 2023, they received a second nomination for Best Americana Performance for “The Message” with The Blind Boys of Alabama.

Performing nearly 100 shows a year—including many for low-income students—Black Violin inspires young audiences to challenge stereotypes around classical music. In 2019, they launched the Black Violin Foundation Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing access to quality music programs, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic status. Its flagship initiative, the Musical Innovation Grant, helps young musicians attend programs that foster creativity and growth.