Marian Anderson - Spirituals

This reissue of 30 spirituals that were originally recorded between 1936 and 1952 presents the legendary Marian Anderson at her peak. Her unique vocal characteristics are everywhere in evidence: the incredible range, the ability to change color and inflection, sometimes creating the illusion of two different voices, and the organ-like resonance and enveloping warmth. There are also traces of Anderson's one weakness: a slightly tremulous vibrato. Her expressive response to this repertoire, always simple, direct, and deeply felt, came from the heart and spoke to the heart. The songs, mostly familiar favorites, are selected for maximum variety. Anderson brings out every nuance of their character and emotional range, from lamenting to swinging, jazzy, and triumphant. Franz Rupp, Andersons's long-time partner whom she credited with introducing her to German lieder, is equally at home in the many styles of these American songs. --Edith Eisler Amazon.com

Revelation

There is much to admire in this CD; despite the fact that these recordings were made in the 1930's the striking vocal color and the famous low notes are represented in beautiful sound. What appeals to me most is the unaffected artistry of the singer: she simply does not hide in her craft. Such pure and naked music-making is striking. This is singing completely free of mannerism. How rare a quality this is!
I am especially attracted to "Change my name", where the singer's identification and connection to the music seem indivisible.
The extraordinary courage and strength of the famous contralto Marian Anderson are manifest in her singing of these spirituals. I prefer it to the later recording done in Living Stereo, though I recommend that recording as well.
Do not hesitate to buy this. April 8, 2008

"Spirituals" CD

Marian Anderson communicates with the incredible voice God gave her. Her suffering amid segregation indignities did not destroy or cripple her; instead, it magnified her beauty inside and out. What a privilege to listen to her sing these spirituals. December 26, 2007

Brilliant voice, perhaps too heavy for all tastes

Like many of my generation, I know Marion Anderson more in a historical than a musical context. I wanted to get to know her for what she was best known for--a strong woman with a strong voice.

The recordings are well preserved and I'm glad I've listened to them, but I'm afraid her contralto will continue to take time for these ears to grow into. I'm a product of sopranos, and I have to learn to listen with new ears. December 21, 2007

Gorgeous, heartfelt singing!

What an amazing singer! I had only heard of Marian Anderson through reading books, and I happened to be thumbing through the cds in a cd-record exchange store when her name jumped out at me. I'm so very glad I shelled out my seven dollars! I'm not even really into spirituals, but something about the incredibly rich and impassioned quality of this legendary contralto's voice is completely irresistible. She connects so wonderfully with you when you're listening to it; you feel like she's singing to you, and you alone. Everything I've read on her remarks on her truly impressive range and vocal color, and it's all true. Her resonance can be a tiny bit unfocused...you can hear it in the vibrato sometimes...but this is an extreme rarity. There really is nothing to pick on about her voice-it just touches you in a deep way and won't let you go. These are historic recordings, and anyone, whether s/he likes African-American spirituals or not (and I admit I do now!) must add this CD to his/her collection. You will not be disappointed. April 3, 2004

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