The Blacknificent 7

Formed in 2020, the Blacknificent 7 is a dynamic network of trailblazing Black composers, whose December 2023 Symphony Center debut was met with critical acclaim. The collective consists of soprano and composer Jasmine Barnes, composer and bass-baritone Damien Geter, CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence and violinist Jessie Montgomery, composer and educator Shawn Okpebholo, composer Dave Ragland, composer and keyboardist Carlos Simon and composer Joel Thompson.

A portion of the proceeds from Blacknificent 7 merchandise sales benefits programs supporting the next generation of underrepresented composers.