Program notes
The film tells the story of classical Black singing set against the background of Black emancipation in politics and society. It portrays for instance the first successes of bass Paul Robeson, who, throughout his life, regarded his voice as an instrument of liberation, and the young singing pupils of the Harlem School of Arts. In addition, we hear great Afro American singers, opera company directors, and conductors talking about their views. Historical and contemporary film excerpts demonstrate the richness and variety of the Black singing tradition.
With Jessye Norman, Grace Bumbry, Shirley Verrett, Simon Estes, Barbara Hendricks, Edward Said.