I will never forget being in college, studying for 20th Century Calssical Music, listening to and watching this video, and then after I was done I shut the books and threw on In Memory of Elizabeth Reed live at the Filmore East directly after. I was one of the strangest, but also most euphoric expereiences of my life LOL
School choir supplied urchins for the simpleton scene . . . they threw us into the coronation procession with our snazzy choirboy garb. Dress rehearsal, in the wings waiting to enter, i asked a stagehand about the two huge racks of chimes we'd been warned to stay away from.What are those, I asked. He said "Those are the church bells of Moscow." (LA City College circa 1958)
Margaret Bonds’ greatest work. She was largely unknown in her Time. Being black and a woman did not help her. Great to see this work getting some performances. It’s a universal message to humanity.
Wonderful soloist!!! Gorgeous and strong voice. However, why were the words changed? The lyrics are "I believe in the Negro race". Granted, there are many Caucasian singers here, but the words should never be changed without permission.
Comparisons are "odorous" Skp... But, although it is not the most important criterion for success in this most demanding of roles, the enormity and lustrous power of Nilsson's voice in the house can never be conveyed by mechanical means...sadly.
Beautiful work by one of America’s Hidden Figures. Listen also to the orchestrated version! Florence Price, who taught Margaret Bonds, is another Hidden Figure worth your time. Best, 7
