The Blacknificent 7 Collective: A New Force in Classical Music

The world of classical music is witnessing the rise of a new group of influential creators known as the Blacknificent 7. This ensemble includes six emerging Black composers who, alongside celebrated jazz trumpeter Terence Blanchard, began their association during a Facebook Live event called #KikiKonversations in the midst of the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.

The Formation of the Blacknificent 7

Their initial interaction was so compelling that they continued their discussions in a group chat and eventually welcomed a seventh member, composer Carlos Simon. They chose their name, the Blacknificent 7, as a playful nod to the 1960 movie 'The Magnificent Seven.'

Spotlight on New Talents

While each member has been carving out their individual career, the collective as a whole is gearing up for greater visibility with an upcoming debut at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's contemporary-music series, CSO MusicNOW. Jessie Montgomery, a New York-based composer and the collective's most notable figure, is also the CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence responsible for curating the program.

Composers Jasmine Barnes, Damien Geter, Shawn E. Okpebholo, Dave Ragland, and Joel Thompson will be featured in the program. Excitedly, it will include the world premiere of Barnes' piece commissioned by MusicNOW. The evening promises to be a medley of individual styles, showcasing the group's diverse artistry.

A Unique Artistic Community

The collective's members, apart from sharing their musical journeys, offer each other career support and often attend each other's premieres or meet at music conferences. This sense of community has been a driving force for their collective progress and individual growth.

Dave Ragland's piece 'Eight Tones for Elijah,' which honors the memory of Elijah McClain and voices a cry for social justice, will be one of the featured works. Barnes will also present a musical setting of Pulitzer Prize-winning Tracy K. Smith's poem, raising poignant questions about America as a land of opportunity.

Emerging Voices in Classical Music

The Blacknificent 7 is a testament to the continued evolution and diversification of the classical music world. The collective not only signifies progress in the industry but also offers a fresh and compelling perspective on the art form. With members like Jasmine Barnes who, as the youngest contributor, brings a new vitality and questioning narrative to the mix, the collective is set to become a significant presence on the classical music horizon.

collective, composers, diversity