Assistant Conductor, Founding Director, & Faculty Member
Patrice Floyd stands as a celebrated violinist and the pioneering founder of Javacya Arts Conservatory, a premier institution championing the advancement of classical music education. With a dedication that spans over four decades, her dual passion for performance and pedagogy has shaped the careers of countless young musicians, fostering classical music appreciation across diverse communities. A distinguished artist, her illustrious career has taken her across global stages, collaborating with eminent artists and leading orchestras. More than a performer, Patrice is a stalwart advocate for musical education, driven by a conviction that music is transformative because it has the power to impact on lives. Although Patrice Floyd was the sole Black violinist in her class at Florida State University, her music coach, the late Robert Sedore, always made her feel valued and supported. Recently, in recognition of this influential relationship, Minor-Floyd and the Javacya Arts Conservatory were honored to receive the ownership of Mr. Sedore's cherished viola.
Under her visionary leadership, Javacya has emerged as a model of excellence, nurturing not only accomplished musicians but also individuals of exceptional character who make substantive contributions to society. Expanding her influence, Patrice has established successful satellite schools in South Carolina, Orlando, Florida, Fitzgerald, Georgia, and Thomasville, Georgia. Through Javacya’s celebrated community outreach initiative, Teachers-On-The-Go, she strategically positions performing and teaching artists in educational settings, both public and private. Her efforts were notably recognized with a $1,000,000 grant awarded to develop a cutting-edge music conservatory and integrate arts into the curriculum of elementary schools during the academic day. Her unique approach to community engagement has earned acclaim from President Biden’s office and caught the attention of national media. Documentaries and television programs, including Arts Engines by Aaron Dworkin of the Sphinx Organization, WFSU-TV, the Orlando Sentinel, The Augusta Chronicle, and the Tallahassee Democrat have featured Minor-Floyd, spotlighting her profound impact as both the heart of Javacya and a virtuoso violinist adorned with numerous accolades.