Futureman and the Black Mozart Ensemble

Roy "Futureman" Wooten is an artist known for bridging the gap between the past, the present and the future. Deriving from a rich musical background, Futureman is an inventor, scientist, musician, composer and five time Grammy award winning performer with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones.

Futureman has now embarked upon a new creative journey with The Black Mozart Ensemble. Bridging the past with the present for a better future, Futureman is composing, producing, and directing a visionary new project entitled "The Black Mozart." This project celebrates the life and music of the Black Mozart; Joseph Boulogne de Saint Georges. This 18th Century maestro and swordsman made contributions that revolutionized the world of musical creation. St. Georges used his abilities to find fame and fortune, yet as the son of a slave, remained an outsider. He fought against racism all his life, and can serve as a powerful hero for all of us as we struggle against the racism and divisiveness of today.

The Black Mozart Ensemble is composed of young virtuoso violinists and cellists under the direction of Futureman. The music is complemented by the addition of hip hop artists, and actors/narrators. The music of Black Mozart has a message for the ears, eyes and moves of today's modern world. Futureman states that this composition, The Black Mozart is a personal statement of New American Classical Roots and Dance Music with social aspirations that embraces all races of humanity. The music celebrates the life and times of a great man who rose to become one of music history's greatest heroes. Monsieur Saint Georges was a revolutionary musician who dedicated his life to the rise from the ashes of a world steeped in the slave trade. This great musician had many talents and amazing abilities that forever changed the world of sword fighting, violin playing, classical music forms, and the racial status quos. Futureman presents The Black Mozart Ensemble is honored to reintroduce the music and spirit of Joseph Boulogne de Saint Georges.

The Black Mozart Ensemble is a group of young, virtuosic performers who have found a home in embracing the creative demands of Futureman's compositions, pushing ensemble playing itself to new heights. Diverse in both artistic and cultural backgrounds, each member brings a unique flavor, the result of which is a refined, modern ensemble
that evokes what has become the 'Black Mozart sound.' While audiences astound at the individual brilliance of each player, their collective performance sounds beautiful and feels good – truly reminiscent of the spirit in which Joseph Boulogne Le Chevalier de Saint Georges' original symphonie concertante encouraged human collaboration rather than
individual indulgence. Members of the ensemble include Zach Casebolt, Lyndsay Pruett, Lindy Donia, Tyler Andal, Jesse Hale, Andy Pond, Todd Johnson, and special guests.