Black in Focus: Met Season Opens With First-ever Opera by Black Composer

The video features an interview with Terence Blanchard, a renowned trumpeter and composer, discussing his groundbreaking opera debut at the Met, the first by a Black composer in its history. Blanchard talks about the challenges of cultural representation in opera, the importance of music education, and the role of donors in supporting diverse works. He also contrasts the creative processes of composing operas and albums, emphasizing the collaborative nature of music creation. The discussion highlights the growing demand for music in film and streaming services, and the need for audiences to approach performances with an open mind.

What does Blanchard say about the role of donors in supporting new works at the Met?

How does Blanchard differentiate between creating an album and composing an opera?

What advice does Blanchard give to audiences attending an opera for the first time?