The Metropolitan Museum of Art has debuted a fresh musical piece titled “Handel: Made in America,” shedding light on the composer’s connection to British Empire trading companies that profited from exploiting enslaved individuals.
Handel’s music transcended social and genre boundaries, captivating the British masses with his operas, oratorios, and instrumental works. However, his rise to fame coincided with the flourishing British Empire, supported by trading companies that capitalized on enslaved labor and exotic goods.
Terrance McKnight, the composer of this new piece, offers a unique perspective on Handel’s life and artistry, drawing inspiration from the Met’s ten British galleries. These galleries, housing nearly 700 decorative arts and sculptures spanning from 1500 to 1900, were revamped as part of the museum’s 150th-anniversary celebration.
Described as an introspective journey exploring art, power, history, and family, McKnight’s composition intertwines the narratives of Handel’s world and the personal experiences of its composer, an African-American classical music enthusiast. The musical piece features notable vocalists such as Latonia Moore, J’Nai Bridges, Noah Stewart, and Davone Tines.
In a recent interview with Forbes, McKnight emphasized the core message of his composition, highlighting the ability of individuals to pursue their passions and embark on new paths, echoing Handel’s career trajectory. He also emphasized the valuable opportunity his work provided for young choir members to collaborate and perform alongside opera stars.
Aside from his musical endeavors, McKnight serves as an artistic advisor for the Harlem Chamber Players and holds positions on the boards of the Bagby Foundation and MacDowell Colony. His upbringing in a socially active family environment, with roots in the founding of a Mississippi NAACP branch and church leadership in Cleveland, greatly influenced his career in music education and performance.