“Honoring Black Excellence In Classical Music & Culture.”
“A national celebration recognizing visionary artists, educators, and cultural leaders shaping the future of classical artistry.”
3rd Annual Distinguished Classical Excellence LIVE! Awards Presentation and Concert Countdown
Saturday, February 13, 2027 - Tallahassee, FL - Tickets on sale soon
Nominations for the 3rd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards (2027)
The Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of Black classical musicians, educators, and leaders who have paved the way for future generations. The concert and award show aim to honor excellence, foster inspiration, and continue the legacy of Black classical artistry.
About the Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards
Award Honorees
Award Show Highlights
An extraordinary performance of “A Man’s World” by 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 Vangaurd Award for Classical Innovation and Community Impact.
Nationally renowned composer and educator Dr. Mark Butler received 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.
Media
On Friday, Feb.13, Lee Hall Auditorium at Florida A&M University will erupt into a night of spectacle, soul, and sonic brilliance as The 2nd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence Awards & Concert returns — a Black tie celebration where art, legacy, and community collide.
This is not a concert. This is a cultural declaration.
Described by many as “the Grammys meets the Kennedy Center — rooted in community,” the Distinguished Awards fuses cinematic production with raw, live artistry in Tallahassee.
Expect a powerhouse lineup: the 24 Karat Gold Symphony Orchestra, the Javacya Elite Chamber Orchestra, Tallahassee Nights Live, and world class guest artists delivering a genre bending program that threads classical, jazz, gospel, R&B, and orchestral fire into one unforgettable evening.
This year’s theme is urgent and literal. 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.
GALLERY
“Preserving Legacy Through Artistry.”
“The Distinguished Awards exists to honor, elevate, and preserve Black excellence within classical music, education, and cultural leadership.”
Support our mission by becoming a sponsor today. For sponsorship packet, please email info@javacyamail.com.
Join the Newsletter
Visit Tallahassee
Sponsors
