The family of Jessye Norman has announced the weeklong services and celebrations in memory of the famed artist. The announcements were made through the family spokesperson, Gwendolyn Quinn. The family announced that the funeral is set for Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, at the William B. Bell Auditorium, 712 Telfair Street, Augusta, GA, with doors open and seating beginning at 12:00 {…}
(Credit: Carol Friedman) International star soprano Jessye Norman has died at the age of 74. The news was reported on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019. The legendary soprano reportedly died from septic shock and multi-organ failure after complications with a spinal cord injury that she sustained in 2015. “We are so proud of Jessye’s musical achievements and the inspiration that she {…}
Famed soprano Jessye Norman is set to give a commencement address at the New England Conservatory on Sunday, May 19, 2019. The legendary artist will provide the keynote address at Jordan Hall in Boston. Norman is no stranger to the commencement scene, having received over 40 honorary doctorate degrees throughout her career. She has also won five Grammy Awards and {…}
It’s Black History Month and a time to celebrate the achievements of the black community and how they have affected change around the world in all areas. The opera world is no exception with many great black artists dominating around the globe in the biggest theaters there are. In celebration, some of OperaWire’s staff members have picked their favorite black {…}
On Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019, the Metropolitan Opera will revive its double bill of “Iolanta” and “Bluebeard’s Castle.” The former work will receive its eighth performance at the Met on Thursday in just its first revival with the company. However, the history of “Bluebeard’s Castle” and its 31 performances with the company is intriguing. The work itself is rather brief {…}
Legendary soprano Jessye Norman will be recognized by the National Sawdust on Dec. 17. In an event entitled, “An Evening Honoring Jessye Norman,” audiences will get to learn more about the legendary artist’s latest project “Sissieretta Jones: Call Her By Her Name!” This work-in-progress follows singer Sissieretta Jones whose 150th anniversary happens to fall this year and features performances from {…}
Soprano Jessye Norman has canceled her tour through Latin America. The superstar soprano was slated to make appearances in Lima, Buenos Aires and Sao Paolo throughout October and November, but had to cancel due to health issues. She recently underwent back surgery and was in therapy for many months thereafter. She was supposed to be fully recovered by this point, {…}
Jessye Norman is a singer who defied fach — she sang what she wanted, when she wanted, but more importantly, she took on what felt right for her. In fact, she once stated in her youth that “pigeonholes are only comfortable for pigeons.” And what a blessing it is that she listened to her gut, or else one might not {…}
On Sept. 9, 2017, the LA Opera opens its 2017-18 season with a repertory staple, Bizet’s “Carmen.” However, what makes this revival so appealing is the addition of a soprano in the title role instead of a mezzo-soprano. Ana María Martínez takes on the iconic role for the second time after receiving raves at the Houston Grand Opera. With the {…}
Ever wanted to share something with Jessye Norman? Well, you might get that chance on March 29, 2017, when Doyle sells off the famed soprano’s “White Gates” collection. The live bid will start at 10 AM EDT. The soprano is leaving her country home, White Gates, and has put up the contents of the property on auction through Doyle. Among {…}
For the past two weeks we have honored the black singers making strides in today’s diverse opera world. But unfortunately, as has been the case in many social situations, the opera world was not always that diverse and the black community was not always a lock for representation on the biggest stages. But throughout the years major operatic pioneers manage {…}