Founded in 2016 by Maestro Jason Ikeem Rodgers, Orchestra Noir is redefining the intersection of classical music and African-American culture. Through its unique orchestral performances, the orchestra celebrates the legacy of African-American music pioneers across genres, from classical to jazz, blues, hip-hop, and R&B. Orchestra Noir has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of the most talked-about orchestras in the nation, attracting diverse audiences with its powerful and innovative performances.
This article explores the remarkable journey of Orchestra Noir, its collaborations with global artists, and its impact on music education and cultural advocacy.
A Stellar Rise to Prominence
Orchestra Noir’s rapid success is highlighted by its impressive collaborations with top global brands and iconic artists. The orchestra has worked with Time Warner, NBC Universal, Atlantic Records, Lionsgate, YouTube Music, BET, and OWN Network, among others. Its work extends to high-profile events, such as The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and has seen the orchestra perform alongside international hip-hop stars like 2 Chainz, Migos, Trina, Trick Daddy, and Bryan-Michael Cox.
Orchestra Noir’s achievements have garnered widespread media attention, being featured in publications such as Rolling Stone Magazine, Essence, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and CBS. Their performances, which blend classical symphonic arrangements with popular music, have captivated audiences across the United States, solidifying their place as cultural icons.
Notable Performances and Groundbreaking Projects
Orchestra Noir’s influence extends beyond Atlanta, with sold-out performances in major cities like Houston, New Orleans, Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles. One of their most notable collaborations was with the Charlotte Symphony in the critically acclaimed “Beethoven Meets 90s Vibe” concert, where the orchestra paired the works of Beethoven with the dynamic sound of 90s hip-hop.
The orchestra made history as the first U.S. orchestra to present Red Bull Symphonic, collaborating with hip-hop legend Rick Ross for a genre-defying performance that left audiences in awe. Orchestra Noir also created original compositions for prestigious institutions like the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and the British Columbia Arts Council in Vancouver, Canada.
The orchestra featured in the music video for the Migos song “Deadz” is Orchestra Noir. Orchestra Noir is an all-Black orchestra based in Atlanta, Georgia, and its conductor is Jason Ikeem Rodgers. The orchestra provides a striking visual element to the “Deadz” video, in which they perform alongside Migos and 2 Chainz, who are counting money in front of coffins.
Celebrating Juneteenth and Advocacy for Music Education
In 2025, Orchestra Noir proudly performed at the inaugural Juneteenth Freedom Vibes Festival, a milestone event marking the opening of the National Juneteenth Museum. This performance exemplified the orchestra’s commitment to honoring African-American history and its pivotal role in shaping American music culture.
Beyond performance, Orchestra Noir is a staunch advocate for music education, particularly among minority youth. The orchestra regularly hosts side-by-side and children’s concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Their 3-day residency in Montgomery, AL, exposed underserved youth to professional orchestral musicians of color, fostering an appreciation for classical music and encouraging aspiring young musicians.
The Orchestra Noir Musicians: A Collective of Talent
Orchestra Noir is an all-African-American collective of musicians who bring a fresh and dynamic approach to orchestral music. Each member brings exceptional talent to the stage, and the orchestra is proud to feature some of the finest musicians in the industry, including:
- Saxophone: Larry Smith, Taj Davis, Clifton Haston
- Trumpet: Rhandal Jackson, Tiffany Goode, Elijah Thompson, Calvin Faulk
- Trombone: Jared Brown, Jarius Johnson
- Electric Guitar: Jacob Gray
- Bass Guitar: Maurice Figgins
- Keyboard: Zachary Wilson, Nathaniel Sligh
- Drums: Kevin Jackson
- DJ: DJ Loui Vee
- Violin & Viola: Renita Humphrey, Shondalla Calder, Dr. Nicole Wright, Carey Durham, Courtland Walters, Marion DuBose, Donovan Fuller, Shiann Ivey
The Visionaries Behind Orchestra Noir
- Maestro Jason Ikeem Rodgers: Founder, CEO, and Music Director, Maestro Rodgers has led Orchestra Noir from its inception, ensuring that the orchestra remains true to its mission of blending classical music with African-American musical traditions.
- Keisha Rodgers: President of Operations, overseeing the day-to-day management of the orchestra’s expanding operations.
- Larry J. Smith: Associate Music Director, working closely with Maestro Rodgers to shape the orchestra’s musical direction.
- Ashley Branch: Operations Manager, ensuring seamless execution of the orchestra’s concerts and initiatives.
Conclusion: The Cultural Legacy of Orchestra Noir
Orchestra Noir continues to break new ground by showcasing the cultural richness of African-American music through orchestral performance. The orchestra’s ability to blend genres and reach diverse audiences has made it a powerful force in the music industry. By celebrating the legacy of African-American pioneers and advocating for music education, Orchestra Noir is not only transforming the classical music landscape but also inspiring future generations of musicians.
For more information on upcoming performances, educational initiatives, and collaborations, visit Orchestra Noir’s official website or follow them on social media.
