Jessye Norman (1945-2019) was an American soprano of majestic presence and vast interpretive range, whose opulent voice made her one of the greatest classical artists of the late twentieth century. Born in Augusta, Georgia, she earned a bachelor’s degree at Howard University and continued her studiesat the University of Michigan and the Peabody Institute. Rising through European opera houses before becoming a global recital and concert star, she brought a distinctive regal poise, dramatic intelligence, and deep musical curiosity to everything from Wagner and Strauss to spirituals and contemporary works. Her career was marked by landmark recordings, major cultural honors, 30 honorary, doctorate degreesand a public stature that extended beyond music into humanitarian advocacy, all carried with the commanding grace that made her an icon of American artistry.
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The great American soprano JESSYE NORMAN was born on September 15, 1945.
“I am deeply spiritual; I revel in those things that make for good - the things that we can do to shed a little light, to help place an oft-dissonant universe back in tune with itself.”
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