Irish Musician Duke Special in Concert at the Met

«The Met is always interested in both new audiences and new perspectives. In 2009, we created an initiative called Spectrum to produce events that shed fresh light on our collections and exhibitions. Programs have included conversations with artists, a story-telling event co-hosted with The Moth, and live musical performances, all connected to the works of art in our galleries.»

Above, from left to right: Alfred Stieglitz (American, 1864–1946). The Hand of Man, 1902, printed 1910. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Alfred Stieglitz Collection, 1949 (49.55.9); Edward J. Steichen (American, b. Luxembourg, 1879–1973). In Memoriam, 1901, printed 1904. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Alfred Stieglitz Collection, 1933 (33.43.48); Paul Strand (American, 1890–1976). Winter, Central Park, New York, 1913–14. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Gilman Collection, Purchase, Jennifer and Joseph Duke Gift, 2005 (2005.100.117)

For our next Spectrum event, on Thursday, March 24, the award-winning Belfast-based musician Duke Special will debut original songs inspired by the exhibition Stieglitz, Steichen, Strand. Duke Special has spent the past six months researching the lives of these great photographers and the stories behind their images. Stieglitz's The Hand of Man, Steichen's In Memoriam, and Strand's Winter, Central Park, New York are among the works that have inspired him to write new compositions. The performance will include collaborations with The Orchestre de Chambre Miniature, featuring members of the Brooklyn-based indie band Clare and the Reasons. I hope you will join us for this unique night of music.

Duke Special. Photograph by Richard Gilligan

Ashley Williams is an associate administrator in the Director's Office.

Related Links
Spectrum
Stieglitz, Steichen, Strand
Duke Special