Terence Blanchard

The Profile

Terence Blanchard is an American jazz trumpeter and composer, noted for his work as a bandleader and for composing film scores, especially collaborations with director Spike Lee. He has recorded for Blue Note and leads a jazz quintet.

Composed soundtracks for Spike Lee beginning with Jungle Fever (1991) through works including Inside Man (as noted in reviews). 'Flow' was released on Blue Note and produced by Herbie Hancock. 'A Tale of God's Will (A Requiem For Katrina)' was written for Spike Lee's documentary When The Levees Broke and featured Blanchard conducting The Northwest Sinfonia; both reviewed DeBaser pieces credit band members Aaron Parks (piano), Brice Winston (sax), Derrick Hodge (bass), Kendrick Scott (drums) and guitarist/composer Lionel Loueke.

Two DeBaser reviews praise Blanchard's dual life as a jazz trumpeter and film-score composer. Flow is noted for its variety and Herbie Hancock's production; A Tale of God's Will is described as a powerful requiem for Katrina with orchestral elements. Both reviews highlight strong band contributions and emotional depth.