By: Charla Cole/Instructional Paraprofessional

What happens when two high school friends learn classical violin in first period band but by third period are listening to their favorite rap artists like Notorious BIG and Wu-Tang Clan? Two worlds collide and through thinking outside the box, the hip hop duo “Black Violin” was created. We got to see them perform at the historical Count Basie Basie theater this week and it was absolutely awesome. Kev Marcus plays the violin and Wil B. plays the viola which gives them their distinctive sound. They were energetic, welcomed audience participation, and had everyone on their feet dancing and having a blast!

  “Black Violin” breaks down the stereotype that as an artist, you have to fit into only one genre of music to be successful. They explained at the end of the performance that being violinists has opened up many doors for them, from full music scholarships to performing alongside artists such as Alicia Keys, Kanye West, and even at President Obama’s inauguration! Several of our students commented that this was one of the best shows ever at Count Basie Theater!

Did You Know: “Black Violin” are also avid producers and writers, having worked with Kanye West, Tom Petty, Lupe Fiasco, and Aerosmith, among others.