The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan SlocumbGrowing up Black in rural North Carolina, “world-class professional violinist” is not an obvious career choice for Ray McMillian. But Ray has a gift and a dream, and nothing will stand in his way. Not his mother, who wants him to stop making such a racket; not the fact that he can’t afford a violin suitable to his talents; not even the racism inherent in the world of classical music.
When he discovers that his beat-up family fiddle is actually a priceless Stradivarius, his dream suddenly seems within reach. But on the eve of the renowned Tchaikovsky Competition — the Olympics of classical music — the violin disappears, a ransom note left in its place. Without it, Ray feels like he's lost a piece of himself. As the competition approaches, Ray must not only reclaim his precious violin, but prove to himself and the world that no matter the outcome, there has always been a truly great musician within him. |
About the AuthorBrendan Nicholaus Slocumb was raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and holds a degree in music education (with concentrations in violin and viola) from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. For the past two decades, he has been a public and private school music educator for elementary through high school students. He also serves as an educational consultant for the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. His second novel, Symphony of Secrets, was published in April 2023 to critical acclaim. He is currently working on a third novel, to be published in early 2025.
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Finale Event with Author Brendan Slocumb
Sunday, February 25, 1-2 pm • In-Person or Zoom
Stevenson High School, West Auditorium, 1 Stevenson Drive, Lincolnshire
Stevenson High School, West Auditorium, 1 Stevenson Drive, Lincolnshire
Brendan Slocumb shares the inspiration behind The Violin Conspiracy. To kick off the program, enjoy live string music performed by students from the Libertyville High School orchestra. Copies of Brendan’s books will be available for purchase and signing at the event, courtesy of the Book Bin of Northbrook.
The in-person event is almost full but there are a few spots left.
The in-person event is almost full but there are a few spots left.