COCA /Tallahassee Arts continues our “Artists Inspire” series to feature local artists of all genres in our community. “Artists Inspire” gives us a glimpse into the lives of our working artists and cultural leaders – promoting what is unique to Tallahassee and our surrounding area. In September, we continue to celebrate local artists and organizations that were part of National Black Business Month in August.
As a professional violinist, Patrice Floyd continues to tour four continents. She has performed for President W. J. Clinton, several ambassadors, and global dignitaries. She is the founder of Javacya Arts Conservatory, a 40-year-old music conservatory for children, and Patrice Floyd Ministries.
Having founded satellite campuses in South Carolina, Georgia, throughout Florida, founding Javacya Elite Chamber Orchestra, Mary Roberts Chamber Orchestra, and house four resident ensembles at Javacya, Patrice Floyd has been busy making contributions to the arts in the States and abroad, especially concerning diversity.
In partnership with Javacya’s senior conductor, Ralph Jean-Paul, and St. Peters Anglican Church, the annual Arts-in-the-Heart event is a cross-cultural yearly concert series. In 2020, the new Javacya Symphony Sextet featuring cellist Khari Joyner and bassist Portia Lundy made its debut.
Learn more about Javacya here.
What is necessary for your creative process?
I’m a pretty hyper-active person; therefore, silence is golden for me. For massive work projects, I work around a pool, lake, or beach.
What fictional character would you like to bring to life and meet?
Okoye is a fictional character and the General of the Dora Milaje in Marvel Comics. She is beautiful, unique, and a force who stands her ground.
What music is playing in your car?
Cello Motion – Khari Joyner, Blues Dialogue, Violin Concertos by Black Composers of the 19th Century featuring Rachel Barton Pine and ‘I Am The Lord’ by Kaydee Numbere.
What is the last local live performance, or book you have read, that had an impact on you?
I recently read ‘Make Your Bed’ by Admiral William H. McRaven.
It’s time to explore Tallahassee and Leon County; where are we going and why?
The Meek-Eaton Black Archives and The Riley House. I want to spend time at the museums learning about the enormous contributions of my ancestors.
If you were trapped in a TV show or movie for a month, which would it be?
I love ‘911’ featuring Angela Basset.
What superpower would you like to have?
I want to fly because it is the ultimate way to multi-task.
What do you like best about living in Tallahassee?
I like the trees, parks, lakes and canopy roads.
What have you learned from failure?
Resilience. Although success is rewarding, the failures helped to shape my life.
What do you hope you will be remembered for?
I want the genuine care, concern, and love we gave to every person to be remembered.
#tallahasseearts #iheARTtally #ChooseTLH
By Erica Thaler
Council on Culture & Arts (COCA)
Want to learn about more artists in our local community? Check out these recent “Artists Inspire” posts featuring Gerri Seay.
Visit www.tallahasseearts.org for more information about local arts and cultural events and ways to get engaged in our area’s cultural community!