Terence Blanchard: The Music That Speaks

In the second part of our conversation with 2024 NEA Jazz Master trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard, we explore the emotional and creative depths of his work, from his jazz innovations to his evolution as an opera composer.

Blanchard shares the challenges of scoring the documentary When the Levees Broke and discusses how his Grammy-winning album A Tale of God’s Will emerged from those themes, evolving into a deeply personal statement on loss and resilience. From jazz to film and opera, he examines how his musical voice has expanded across genres, culminating in his historic operas Champion and Fire Shut Up in My Bones—the first opera by an African American to be produced at the Metropolitan Opera. He also discusses his role in bringing the Monk Institute  (now the Herbie Hancock Institute) to New Orleans after Katrina and his ongoing dedication as an educator and mentor to young musicians.

He discusses his then-new role as Artistic Director of SFJAZZ, where he provides opportunities for mid-career as well as emerging musicians and brings innovative programming to audiences. As he reflects on receiving the NEA Jazz Master honor, Blanchard considers the legacy of those who came before him and the responsibility of carrying the music forward.