“Honoring Black Excellence In Classical Music & Culture.”
“A national celebration recognizing visionary artists, educators, and cultural leaders shaping the future of classical artistry.”
Students at FAMU DRS had the pleasure of participating in a workshop led by world-renowned violinist Amadi Azikiwe.
Amadi Azikiwe, violist, violinist, and conductor, has been heard in recital in major cities throughout the United States, such as New York, Boston, Cleveland, Chicago, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, Houston, Baltimore, and Washington, DC, including an appearance at the US Supreme Court. Mr. Azikiwe has also been a guest of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center at the Alice Tully Hall and the Kennedy Center. Abroad, he has performed throughout Israel, Canada, South America, Central America, Nigeria, India, Japan, and Hong Kong.
About Famu DRS
Florida A&M University Developmental Research School (FAMU DRS) is a K-12 laboratory school in Tallahassee, founded in 1887 and among the oldest institutions of its kind still operating today. It is a K-12 laboratory school in Tallahassee, Florida, affiliated with Florida A&M University, established in 1887 with elementary grades before expanding to junior high at a later point.
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
3rd Annual Distinguished Black Classical Excellence LIVE! Awards Presentation and Concert Countdown
‘Saturday, February 13, 2027
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.
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 Vanguard 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 Saturday, 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.
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.
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