Black Violin

Even though the artists of Black Violin are classically trained, don't expect a typical chamber music concert when Wilner “Wil B” Baptiste and Kevin “Kev Marcus” Sylvester take to the Fisher stage this fall. Instead, expect atypical music which breaks stereotypical expectations as the duo expertly blend contemporary pop, jazz, R&B, and hip hop styles within strong classical undertones.

With their unparalleled technique, the pair creates a distinctive, peerless sound, “… a hard-hitting beat with lush string sounds,” says Wil. “Something you can listen to if you don't listen to hip-hop, or if you don't listen to classical music—we bridge that gap.”

Realizing that every opportunity to connect audiences of various music styles is an opportunity to break down the barriers that separate, Black Violin takes the opportunity to empower individuality and encourage progressive thinking and the acceptance of the varying genres.

The duo has performed for audiences worldwide within 49 states and 36 countries, as well as for three Super Bowls and the U.S. Open in Forest Hills with Jordin Sparks. They were asked to perform with Alicia Keys at the Billboard Awards. They toured with Mike Shinoda of Linkin Park, opened for the Wu-Tang Clan, scored an episode of CSI: New York, and even performed for President Obama at his second inauguration in 2013.

Individually and together, Wil and Kev have worked with everyone from Kanye West to Tom Petty, Lupe Fiasco to Aerosmith. All the while, Black Violin continued touring non-stop (playing as many as 200 shows a year) and released two independent, self-financed albums.

Tickets for Black Violin are available by clicking on the button above or by calling the Lively Arts' ticket office at 724-357-1313. Tickets for any seats remaining will be sold at the door starting one hour prior to the performance start time. Tickets are priced at $40 for regular admission, $36 for seniors (60 or older), and $18 for active I-Card holders, students, and children. Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more.