“Honoring Black Excellence In Classical Music & Culture.”

“A national celebration recognizing the visionary artists, educators, and cultural leaders shaping the future of classical artistry — and the young musicians coming up behind them.”

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Who Your Ticket Serves

FAMU DRS STREAM Youth Orchestra · Florida A&M University Developmental Research School · Sectional rehearsal

FAMU DRS STREAM Youth Orchestra · Florida A&M University Developmental Research School · Masterclass with violinist Amadi Azikiwe

FAMU DRS STREAM Youth Orchestra · Florida A&M University Developmental Research School · Full orchestra rehearsal

Every seat sold puts a bow in a young person’s hand. These are students in the FAMU DRS STREAM Youth Orchestra, in rehearsal at their own school, learning from working professionals.

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3rd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence LIVE! Awards Presentation and Concert Countdown

Saturday, February 13, 2027

3rd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence LIVE! Awards Presentation and Concert Saturday, February 13, 2027. Proceeds fund scholarships, instruments, lessons, therapy-based arts programs, and tuition-free orchestral training for hundreds of underserved children across Tallahassee, Leon County, and neighboring communities. For many students, Javacya Arts Conservatory is a lifeline — not a luxury.

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THEY’RE BACK — AND MERGING ON ONE STAGE

FAMU DRS STREAM Youth Orchestra • Tallahassee Nights Live Band & Singers • The 24 Karat Gold Symphony • Javacya Elite Chamber Orchestra

R&B, soul, country, gospel, and classical — polished to perfection.

Now a three-day Valentine’s weekend getaway • February 11–13, 2027 • Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL

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Nominations for the 3rd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards (2027)

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The Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of Black classical musicians, students, educators, and leaders who have paved the way for future generations. This concert and award show aim to honor excellence, inspire others, and continue the legacy of Black classical artistry.

About the Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards

Award Honorees

2027 Honorees - Vote Here

2026 Honorees

2025 Honorees

Award Show Highlights

An extraordinary performance of "A Man's World" featured the Tallahassee Nights Live Band, Javacya Elite Chamber Orchestra, and the 24k Gold Symphony, with special appearances by vocalist Ron Wilson and trombonist Gamaliel Harris.

World-renowned pianist and composer Joe Williams received the Vanguard Award for Classical Innovation and Community Impact.

Dr. Mark Butler, a nationally renowned composer and educator, has been awarded the Distinguished Choral Leadership Award.

A powerful rendition of Sam Cooke’s "A Change Is Gonna Come," performed by the Tallahassee Nights Live Band and the 24k Gold Symphony, featuring Adrian Morris.

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On Saturday, February 13, 2027, Lee Hall Auditorium at Florida A&M University will come alive with a night of spectacle, soul, and sonic brilliance as the 3rd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards & Concert takes center stage. This black-tie celebration is where art, legacy, and community intertwine.

This event is more than just a concert; it is a cultural declaration.

Described by many as “the Grammys meets the Kennedy Center — rooted in community,” the Distinguished Awards blends cinematic production with vibrant live performances in Tallahassee.

Prepare for an incredible lineup featuring the FAMU DRS STREAM Youth Orchestra, the 24 Karat Gold Symphony, the Javacya Elite Chamber Orchestra, Tallahassee Nights Live, and world-class guest artists. Together, they will deliver a genre-bending program that seamlessly weaves classical, jazz, gospel, R&B, and orchestral music into one unforgettable evening.

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