Hello

​​

James Racine, born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, was raised in a family of professional classical musicians and educators. Introduced to the violin at the age of four by his mother, Racine quickly demonstrated exceptional musical talent. By sixteen, he was serving as the assistant concertmaster of the Haiti Philharmonic Orchestra and the first violinist of the Holy Trinity String Quartet.

​

Racine moved to the United States to pursue higher education at the University of Kentucky, where he discovered a passion for teaching through his volunteer work with The String Project—a program providing music education to local youth. This experience sparked a 20-year career in education, during which he served as an orchestra director, inspiring and mentoring countless students.

​

Today, Racine is the Director of Community at Kentucky Country Day School, where he leads and manages the school’s community initiatives. His role includes developing programs, policies, and practices that support inclusivity and advance institutional goals. As a recognized practitioner, presenter, and consultant in leadership and community engagement, he has worked with many schools and organizations across the country.

​

Racine is also the founder and executive director of Blazin’ Strings Academy, a nonprofit afterschool program based in Louisville, KY. The Academy provides local youth with access to high-quality string instrument instruction, academic support, and social-emotional learning in a safe and supportive environment.

​

Deeply committed to youth empowerment, education, and community building, Racine has earned national recognition for his leadership. He was named a BMe Community Fellow, joining a network of Black leaders making meaningful contributions to their communities.  With his local efforts, James received the Trustees of Inclusive Equity Award. This honor is awarded by the Louisville Central Community Centers. He is also a recipient of the JFCS MOSAIC Award, honoring international Americans for their impact in both professional fields and civic life.

​

On stage, Racine performs as “Maestro J,” a dynamic contemporary jazz violinist known as The Blazin’ Violinist. His performances—marked by energy, innovation, and emotional depth—have captivated audiences across the U.S. and the Caribbean. A passionate advocate for the arts as a vehicle for cultural connection and expression, Racine believes that “fear and creativity can't live in the same room.” His artistic vision is rooted in curiosity and a belief in music’s power to unify and inspire.