Hip Hop Duo Composed of Two Classically Trained String Instrumentalists; Advocates for Arts Education

Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
Live Event: $50,000 - $100,000 Virtual Event: Please Contact More Fee Info

Black Violin Biography

Black Violin is a hip-hop duo composed of Kevin Sylvester, known as Kev Marcus, and Wilner Baptiste, known as Wil B. Hailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, these classically trained string instrumentalists have achieved recognition for their unique fusion of classical music and hip-hop. Their musical journey began in 2004, leading to collaborations with prominent artists such as Alicia Keys, Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park, Wu-Tang Clan, Kanye West, Tom Petty, Lupe Fiasco, and Aerosmith. Their distinctive sound has been captured in albums like "Stereotypes" and "Take the Stairs," released under the banners of Universal Music Classics and Deutsche Grammophon, a major classical music label.

Their artistry took center stage in 2005 when Black Violin clinched the Showtime at the Apollo 2005 Legend title. Later, their talent was acknowledged on a national level when they performed at the Kids Inaugural Concert for President Barack Obama in 2013, and subsequently in a concert honoring military families. Their performances have brought the "classical boom" to a range of venues, including a one-night concert in Pensacola in January 2020.

Beyond their musical pursuits, Black Violin is deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors and educational initiatives. Through the Black Violin Foundation, they reach over 100,000 students annually with free performances and educational programs. They also maintain a mentorship program at the Mary M. Bethune Elementary School in Broward County, Florida. Furthermore, they have been actively involved with Turnaround Arts, a program aiming to transform schools through the strategic use of the arts.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 05/05/2025.

Black Violin Videos

Black Violin on blending classical music with other genres

Black Violin on blending classical music with other genres

When Kev Marcus and Wil B met in a high school music class they shared their desire to disrupt people's impressions of what classical music should...

Grammy-Nominated duo Black Violin inspires students, shows how "impossible is possible"

Grammy-Nominated duo Black Violin inspires students, shows how "impossible is possible"

With school arts budgets facing cuts and students remote learning, the Grammy-nominated duo Black Violin is stepping in to help. For the "CBS This...

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  • What topics does Black Violin speak about?

    Black Violin is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Black Heritage, Celebrity, Music
  • Where does Black Violin travel from?

    Black Violin generally travels from Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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Black Violin is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Black Violin for your event is $50,000 - $100,000. Black Violin generally travels from Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Darryl "D.M.C." McDaniels, Joey Bada$$, Meek Mill, Rick Ross and Common. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Black Violin for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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