Black Violin is led by classically trained string players Wil B. (viola) and Kev Marcus (violin). Joining them onstage are DJ SPS and drummer Nat Stokes. The band uses their unique blend of classical and hip-hop music, often described as “classical boom," to overcome stereotypes and encourage people of all ages, races, and economic backgrounds to join together to break down cultural barriers.
Black Violin is currently writing and recording their next studio album expected to be released late 2019. Their last record, Stereotypes, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Classical Crossover Chart and #4 on the Billboard R&B Chart. NPR praised the album and band, saying “their music will keep classical music alive for the next generation.” Some of their creative collaborations include Kanye West, Wu-Tang Clan, Wyclef Jean, Lil Wayne, and Alicia Keys.
The group advocates for educational outreach and in the past 12 months have performed for over 100,000 students in the US and Europe. Black Violin’s Impossible Tour will spread the message that anything is possible and there are no limits to what one can achieve, regardless of circumstance.
Curriculum Requirements & Themes
CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS:
To be posted in early 2020
Reserve Seats
Before you begin reserving seats, please review the following details:
WHAT: Black Violin
SHOW DATE: May 6th, 2020
TIME: 11am-12pm
WHERE: Keller Auditorium
RESERAVATION REQUIREMENTS:
Reservation sign-ups will be awarded on a access and exposure not necessarily first-come, first-served basis. You'll be notified via email confirmation whether or not your reservation is granted.
If multiple teachers are bringing several students from one school, a lead teacher can enter the information in for all the other teachers. Otherwise, each individual teacher will need to reserve their own space.
Teachers are responsible for having the school's secretary call PPS or your District Transportation Services to order buses to the event. The PPS number is 503-916-6901. Indicate that Portland'5 will be the responsible paying party.
Please review the study guide and plan to incorporate it into your curriculum. Teachers will also be asked to do a short, post-show evaluation to provide any additional narrative of the experience.
Please do not directly contact Portland'5 or the theater venue.
GRADE LEVEL: K-12
CURRICULUM GUIDE: Uploaded in early 2020
TO RESERVE SEATS: This form will go live in early 2020
Black Violin Performance Reservation Request 2020
If you have any further questions about the project, please contact Kristen Brayson, Program Administrator for Visual & Performing Arts, at kbrayson@pps.net.