Black Violin is a critically-acclaimed hip-hop duo from Florida that fuses classical violin with hip-hop, soul, funk, dance, and more. The group consists of two multi-instrumentalists, Kev Marcus and Wil B, who strive to make classical music accessible and relatable to people from all backgrounds.
Black Violin is well known for their unique mix of genres that captivates audiences of all ages – from youngsters to stars like Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, and Yo-Yo Ma. Since their formation in 2004, they have played numerous sold-out shows in over 30 countries around the world.
They have released three full-length albums, each one featuring their signature genre-breaking sound. With their first #1 record, “Stereotypes”, Black Violin achieved massive success, and the single went on to be featured in a Nike commercial, ESPN special, HBO segment and more.
The duo has also pioneered groundbreaking education initiatives, connecting diverse communities through the power of music and their message of social change.
How did Black Violin get famous?
Black Violin, comprised of Wil B and Kev Marcus, rose to fame after the release of their debut album, “Classical Boom. ” When this album initially released in 2012, it reached No. 5 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart, helping them gain a foothold in the music industry.
Following the success of this initial album, they continued to find success and recognition.
The duo began to garner even more attention after joining forces with friends Mind Expansion and DJ SPS in 2014 to form Black Violin Collective, releasing three EPs. From there, the group went on world tours, performing at festivals and venues across the globe, including appearances at the Apollo Theater, Sydney Opera House, and Royal Albert Hall.
They’ve also made appearances at some of the United States’ largest venues, such as the Hollywood Bowl, Staples Center, and the Barclays Center.
The group’s unique style and sound, combining classical elements and modern hip-hop beats, has allowed them to break barriers and bridge genres. This was possibly most evident in their collaboration with Kanye West on the single “Power” from the multi-platinum selling album, ‘My Dark Twisted Fantasy.
” Working with Kanye and being featured on such a popular album is something many artists work their entire lives to achieve, and for Black Violin it was no different.
All in all, Black Violin has managed to make a name for themselves in the music industry due to their creative approach to combining classical music with hip-hop beats. Their success lies in their ability to bridge genres and push boundaries, constantly looking for new ways to express their music.
They’ve made memorable appearances at large venues and collaborated with popular artists, cementing their place in the music industry.
Who has Black Violin played with?
Black Violin has had the opportunity to collaborate with a wide range of legendary musicians and iconic groups. They have shared the stage with Aerosmith, Alicia Keys, Tom Petty, Wu Tang Clan, The Roots, Busta Rhymes, Aretha Franklin, Maroon 5, and many more.
In addition to those collaborations, Black Violin has opened for Yanni, Nas, Alicia Keys, Amon Tobin, and toured with Wu Tang Clan. Black Violin has also opened for Kanye West, performed with Lupe Fiasco and held multiple symphonic performances of their music with symphony orchestras in Georgia, Utah, Vermont, and many more.
Since the inception of their career, Black Violin has taken the stage with remarkable icons and diverse artists that range from Steve Aoki, Nicki Minaj, Metallica, and Shaggy.
How long does Black Violin last?
Black Violin typically lasts between 90 minutes and two hours. It includes a full performance from both Wil B. and Kev Marcus, as well as numerous encores and extra performances when requested. The duo also takes time to talk in-between songs, giving their fans a unique insight into the music that they create and perform.
While most shows last between 90 minutes and two hours, some are known to last even longer. As always, it depends on the crowd and how many encores they are asked for.
Are there any famous black violinists?
Yes, there are many incredibly talented black violinists who have made a name for themselves in the classical music genre. One of the most celebrated black violinists is Hilary Hahn, a Grammy Award-winning virtuoso.
She has been noted for her technical mastery and her impressive range of repertoire. Other incredibly accomplished violinists include Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, who leads a wide variety of projects to bring classical music to various audiences, and Regina Carter, a master improviser who has consistently explored a variety of genres in her work.
Other notable black violinists include Martin Chalifour, Elmar Oliveira, Wilma Smith, and Philippe Quint. These violinists have all made invaluable contributions to the world of classical music, and their works and performances continue to inspire and delight audiences for years to come.
What is the most haunting violin piece?
One of the most haunting and beautiful violin pieces ever composed is ‘The Lark Ascending’ by Ralph Vaughan Williams. Written in 1914, it is a pastoral piece with a constant repeated skillful phrase of notes and hauntingly beautiful melodic lines that swell and ebb.
The Lark Ascending depicts the flight of a lark, rising gradually towards the heavens and the music gradually builds in intensity and powerful emotion as the lark soars on its journey. It is a beautiful and moving piece of music that has the power to transport the listener away to another time and place.
It is arguably one of the most iconic and emotionally powerful pieces of music to have ever been composed for the violin.
Who inspired Black Violin?
Black Violin was inspired by a variety of different sources. Wil B and Kev Marcus, the two members of the group, cite hip hop, jazz, and classical music as some of their biggest influences. They were also heavily influenced by their experience growing up in the South Florida hip-hop scene.
They cite performers such as, Wu-Tang Clan, Dead Prez and Nas, who pioneered sampling and the inclusion of classical music in rap, as major inspirations. The two were also influenced by the works of Afro-Cuban-American composers Tania León, and Arturo O’Farrill, who wrote specifically for Black Violin in their latest album “Stereotypes.
” Additionally, Wil B and Kev Marcus were also majorly influenced by Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, and the pop, rock and classical music their parents played at home. Finally, the duo has cited their church, where inspirations from gospel and spiritual music could be heard, as another major influence.
All in all, Black Violin has incorporated these diverse influences to create their signature sound.
Who was the first black violinist?
The first recorded black violinist is believed to be Chevalier de Saint-Georges, born Joseph Bologne in 1745 in the West Indies. He was an African-French aristocrat, composer, and virtuoso violinist.
He was an accomplished fencer and also the colonel of a renowned French cavalry, the first of its kind to be commanded by a black man. He was a master of the French classical school of violin playing and highly praised by the great composers of his time such as Mozart, Haydn, and Gluck.
He also had a profound influence, not only on French music of his era but also on music history in general.
Who became the most famous violin?
It is difficult to definitively answer the question of who has become the most famous violin as there have been numerous renowned players throughout history, each with their own unique style and approach to the instrument.
Some of the most renowned violinists of all time include Niccolò Paganini, Antonio Vivaldi, Fritz Kreisler, Jascha Heifetz, Itzhak Perlman, and Yehudi Menuhin. Each of these players has had a profound impact on the history of violin playing and helped to shape the instrument into the highly evolved instrument it is today.
All of these players were highly accomplished and each had a unique approach to the instrument and repertoire, thus making it difficult to single out one as the ‘most famous’.
Why is it called the devil’s violinist?
The term “Devil’s Violinist” was created to describe the remarkable playing style of Niccolò Paganini, a virtuoso violinist and composer whose skill was so remarkable that many believed he must have made a deal with the devil in order to learn and master the instrument.
Paganini’s performances gained a reputation for being devilishly difficult and awe-inspiring, making this nickname, “The Devil’s Violinist”, stick.
The title was further cemented by the fact that Paganini wrote a number of his own compositions for the violin, exploring and pushing the boundaries of the instrument. He was one of the first violinists to truly master the instrument in a way that had never been seen before.
The “urban legend” around Paganini’s demonic style of playing made it a perfect nickname for him and this legend continues to this day, making Niccolò Paganini, “The Devil’s Violinist”.
Is Black Violin still performing?
Yes, Black Violin is still performing! The musical duo, consisting of Wil B. on viola and Kev Marcus on violin, formed in 2004 and have been performing ever since. They continue to tour throughout the United States and beyond, playing their signature mix of classical, hip-hop, rock, R&B, and bluegrass music to audiences everywhere.
Black Violin often incorporates their own original compositions into their performances, along with some favorite classical compositions and popular cover songs. Fans of all ages enjoy their dynamic live shows and the unique sound created by Wil and Kev.
Is 70 too old to learn violin?
No, 70 is definitely not too old to learn violin. It is never too late to learn a musical instrument, and taking up the violin at 70 can have amazing physical and emotional benefits. While it may be more difficult to learn certain techniques as you get older, with practice and guidance from a teacher, it is still possible to become a great violinist.
You may need to be patient as muscles may need extra time to learn simple movements, like changing between fingers or pressing strings. It may also take a bit more time to learn music theory. However, with dedication and determination, you could become a successful violinist.
How many black violinists are there?
As there is no official registry. However, there is an increasing number of black violinists and other black classical musicians entering the field. Some prominent black violinists include Hilary Hahn, Chantel Moody, Tessa Lark, and Joshua Bell, who is widely considered to be the top classical violinist in the world.
There are also many up-and-coming black violinists and classical musicians all over the world, including in the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Canada, and other countries. Furthermore, there are numerous organizations and initiatives that are helping to create more visibility for black classical musicians, such as the Carnegie Hall’s “Weill Music Institute”, and many educational programs that are specifically designed for black classical musicians.
So, while it is unclear how many black violinists specifically there are, it is clear that the number is growing, which is a very positive thing.
What is the oldest known violin to still exist until now?
The oldest known violin that is still in existence today is the Charles IX, made around 1566–1572 by Andrea Amati, who is regarded as the founder of the Cremonese school of violin making. It is believed to have been made especially for the King of France, Charles IX, and it is displayed at the Ashmolean Museum in the UK.
The Charles IX is a perfectly preserved relic of the early history of the violin and it is an example of the very finest craftsmanship of the era. It has curved f-holes and a decoration of lovely floral designs, offering a glimpse into how the instruments were made before today’s standardized models were established.
It also demonstrates how much work and skill goes into making these beautiful and often fragile instruments, and it serves as a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of the luthiers of centuries past.
Do the Black Eyed Peas still perform?
Yes, the Black Eyed Peas are still active as performers. Although they have been recording music since the 1990s, their greatest hits have come in the 2000s. The group has sold millions of records, making them one of the best-selling hip-hop artists of all time.
They have won six Grammy Awards and have had numerous number one hits in both the US and the UK.
The current band lineup consists of Fergie, apl. de. ap, Taboo, and will. i. am. They continue to tour, release new music, and collaborate with a range of different performers. They just released their eighth album, Masters of Boom, in 2019.
It featured a variety of different styles of music, combining rap, hip-hop, and EDM elements.
The Black Eyed Peas have also used their global platform to make social and political statements. They have used music to focus attention on environmental, LGBT rights, and other important issues. They have come together to help find solutions to some of the world’s problems, showing us the power of music and the positive effect that artists can have.