We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Blck Bird String Ensemble a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Blck Bird, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The members of Blckbird String Ensemble have been incredibly fortunate and grateful for all of the performance opportunities we have been awarded this entire first year of business. We have performed in the Hip Hop Symphonic Experience, events for the Music at the Intersection. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, and a Juneteenth concert with the Gateway Festival Orchestra. We have also done outreach work with students who are in the pursuit of being musicians and wanting to perfect their own musical crafts. All of these events have held great meaning for what we do, and why we do it. We think the outreach work that we have done with children is so instrumental for their creative skills because we want to show them that there are musicians from their hometowns with similar backgrounds that also look like them. We strive to be the positive role models that encourage them to keep working hard and living out their dreams in being performers, educators, or whatever else they desire to excel in.

Blck Bird, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

The BLCK Bird String Ensemble, founded in 2023, has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to promoting diversity and education within the musical landscape. The ensemble prioritizes the exploration of innovative compositions and lesser-known works originating from the African diaspora. Their performances showcase a rich repertoire that includes classical masterpieces, notable 20th-century pieces, popular R&B selections, and newly commissioned works, reflecting a vibrant musical journey.

As ardent supporters of the arts and educational initiatives, the BLCK Bird String Ensemble views chamber music as a powerful vehicle for enhancing communication and fostering understanding across various races, cultures, and nations. Their artistic endeavors are not solely focused on performance; they actively engage with the community to promote cultural appreciation and inclusivity through music.

The quartet’s dedication to education and community involvement plays a crucial role in shaping the musical experiences of future generations. By inspiring young musicians and audiences alike, the BLCK Bird String Ensemble contributes significantly to the cultural fabric of society, ensuring that diverse musical narratives are heard and celebrated.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

One effective method to support creatives and creators from marginalized communities is to engage in independent education regarding the oppression, misogyny, and homophobia that persistently affect these groups. Dedicating time to this learning process enhances your understanding of the systemic barriers that contribute to their struggles. Increased awareness equips you to challenge these systems and advocate for the advancement of marginalized communities. This approach is essential for anyone wishing to identify as an ally to creativity and demonstrates a genuine commitment to the arts.

Another way to help support artists and creatives in building a vibrant ecosystem is simply the “like, share and comment” philosophy. Engaging with their work by liking, commenting, and sharing is essential. Social media serves as a powerful platform for amplifying the voices of marginalized creatives; however, these actions represent only the foundational level of support. When you encounter an artist whose work resonates with you on social media, it is important to take further steps to assist them.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Our main goal is positive musical representation for the culture. Periodt!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.tai-Davis.com/blckbird
• Instagram: Blckbirdstrings

Image Credits

Image credits_ Virginia Harold. (Professional images)