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Jessye Norman is one of the world’s most admired and beloved singers—and her life story is as moving and dramatic as the great operatic roles she has performed on stage.
Born and raised in Augusta, Georgia, she studied the piano and sang the songs of her childhood, never dreaming that this passion for music might lead to her life’s profession. Here she presents “a rich portrait of a childhood firmly grounded by family, church and community,” and recalls in rich detail the strong women who were her role models, from her ancestors to family friends, relatives, and teachers (The Wall Street Journal). She also discusses her relationship with the pioneering African American singer Marian Anderson—revealing the lifelong support she provided through her example of dignity and grace at all times.
Norman also describes coming face-to-face with racism, both as a child living in the segregated South and as an adult out and about in the world. Filled with inspiration and wisdom, Stand Up Straight and Sing! is not just for lovers of music, but for everyone.
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Creators
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Publisher
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Release date
May 6, 2014 -
Formats
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Kindle Book
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OverDrive Read
- ISBN: 9780544003385
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EPUB ebook
- ISBN: 9780544003385
- File size: 21647 KB
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Languages
- English
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Reviews
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May 1, 2014
Celebrated American soprano Norman (b. 1945) combines episodes from her life with remarks on singing technique, African American history, and the role of the performing arts in society in this captivating memoir. She opens each chapter with the text from a spiritual and closes each with original and translated writings of a song or opera excerpt; in between she delves into her upbringing and family background in Augusta, GA, and her experiences in opera houses and concert venues throughout the world. While the tone of the volume is quite serene and emphasizes her philosophy of humanity, Norman unflinchingly details the struggles of African Americans against racism both in and out of the arts as well as her own challenges when confronted with difficult colleagues, conductors, or directors, while eschewing gossip. Throughout one senses her gratitude for her abilities as well for the people around her, especially her female relatives and friends; surprisingly, her siblings appear and disappear rather abruptly and readers may wish for a fuller portrait of them. A CD or links to online versions of her performances of the highlighted pieces would have added to the work. VERDICT For anyone who has heard Norman sing or been inspired by the programs with which she has been involved, this book will be essential. It should also appeal to those interested in vocal performance and those exploring the black experience in contemporary life.--Barry Zaslow, Miami Univ. Libs., Oxford, OH
Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
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