Orchestra Noir Celebrates a Decade of Community and Change
Ten years ago, Orchestra Noir was born from the dreams of Jason and Keisha Rodgers, a husband-and-wife duo who moved to Atlanta with a passion for music and a vision for representation on the orchestral stage. Now, they are celebrating a significant milestone: a decade of performances that aim to transform how orchestral music is experienced both in Atlanta and around the globe.
The inception of Orchestra Noir came after the couple participated in an inspiring holiday gala hosted by 100 Black Men of Atlanta Inc. It was there that Jason felt compelled to create something unique, stating, “I think that night, I said ‘Orchestra Noir.’” The couple, both of whom have backgrounds in music education and performance, recognized a gap in representation for Black musicians in classical settings, often finding Jason as one of the few Black individuals in orchestral environments. He pointed out the importance of exposure for aspiring musicians of color.
Renita Humphrey, the orchestra’s longest-standing member and a retired music educator, reflects on the significance of this representation. For her, being part of Orchestra Noir is about more than just music; it’s about inspiring younger generations. With nearly four decades of experience in music education, she finds pride in contributing to a group that showcases a distinctive sound to the Atlanta community—a city she loves deeply.
As they embark on their anniversary tour, Orchestra Noir will bring their unique blend of orchestral and contemporary sounds to Atlanta on November 20 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center. The celebration encapsulates not only their achievements over the past decade but also their ongoing commitment to connecting communities through music.
