Black Violin Makes an Impact on the Community

“It was lit,” exclaimed one African-Centered College Preparatory Academy student after a Black Violin school Matinee on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018. Many other students from across the Kansas City metro area echoes that sentiment as they returned to their school buses, noting that the show was “fabulous” and “amazing.”

Students enjoy the Black Violin Matinee performance. Photo by Cody Boston.

Black Violin members Kev Marcus and Wil B showcased their impressive skills on the strings while fusing hip-hop, pop, and modern sounds with classical tunes. In between pieces that had students up on their feet, Kev and Wil B paused to share their personal stories as musicians. Throughout the performance, they encourage students to pursue their dreams, break stereotypes and think outside the box. The Kauffman Center’s Black Violin school matinee brought more than 1,500 students from 24 local schools, ranging in age from kindergarten to 12th grade. When asked about her favorite elements of the performance, one student replied that she liked, “everything, but especially when I got to get up and dance.”

Through the Kauffman Center’s Open Doors program, young people can be a part of high-quality arts experiences like Wednesday’s Black Violin school matinee. The Open Doors Transportation Fund, Community Tickets, and Spotlight on Youth initiatives all work to give Kansas City youth diverse opportunities to experience the arts. Click here to learn more about upcoming performances and programming for young audiences.

Harmony Project KC with Black Violin members, Kev Marcus and Wil B.
Photo courtesy of the Kauffman Center.

After performing for enthusiastic students in the morning, Black Violin performed a second show for a sold-out audience on Wednesday evening. Prior to the Black Violin performance, students with Harmony Project KC, a local non-profit focused on youth development and mentorship, performed for guests as part of the Open Doors Live in the Lobby program. Not only did these Harmony Project KC students get to watch the Black Violin performance, they also got to meet Kev Marcus and Wil B prior to the show!

Ultimately, both Black Violin performances reached audiences of all ages and backgrounds and made for a memorable performing arts experience. The Kauffman Center was thrilled to showcase Black Violin on its stage while connecting so many young people to the duo’s innovative sound and powerful message.

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