Poster Black Violin's new album is called 'Stereotypes.'
Black Violin’s goal is to make the violin and viola sound naturally and unabashedly Black.
Lisa Leone
Rhapsody in Black

Black Violin mixes hip-hop and classical to create an unabashedly Black sound

Rhapsody in Black - Black Violin
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The award-winning string duo Black Violin has been mixing classical and hip-hop for over 20 years. Made up of violist Wil B and violinist Kev Marcus, two classically trained string players from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the group’s goal is to make the violin and viola sound naturally and unabashedly Black. Throughout its career, the duo has collaborated with various high-profile artists, including Alicia Keys, Linkin Park and Kanye West. Marcus is grateful for the door of opportunity classical music opened for him as the ensemble continues to cultivate an equal partnership between the two genres.

Credits

Host: Vernon Neal

Producer: Dan Nass

Writer: Akshaj Turebylu

Executive Producer: Julie Amacher

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Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

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Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

Celebrating Julia Perry

Celebrating Julia Perry

Composer Julia Perry for years existed only in the margins. But her works are finally getting renewed attention. Find out more about this amazing composer’s legacy in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

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Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
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Pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason grew up in a family surrounded by music

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Raised in a family surrounded by music, pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason has worked hard to become a successful concert and recording artist. She had help along the way, primarily from her parents, who made sacrifices to ensure that she and her six younger siblings have all had wonderful music educations. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

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Roberta Flack was the shepherd of a new R&B sound

Roberta Flack was the shepherd of a new R&B sound

Pop artist Roberta Flack grew up classically trained and continued to love the music, even when revolutionizing the R&B scene. Find out more about her life in this episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

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Awadagin Pratt is opening doors for young Black classical artists

Awadagin Pratt is opening doors for young Black classical artists

Awadagin Pratt is a professor of piano at the University of Cincinnati and the recipient of multiple awards. He’s never shied away from talking about his experiences as a Black man in classical music, and he’s working to make it a more welcoming space. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

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Gil Scott-Heron's message for the 1970s — and today
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About Rhapsody in Black

Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.

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About Rhapsody in Black
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