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 example the first successes of the 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, who identify themselves with their origins in rejuvenated pride. In addition, we hear the great Afro american singers, their opera company directors, and conductors talk about their viewsz. HIstorical and contemporary film extracts and specially shot film sequiences demonstrate the richness and variety of black singing.
With Jessye Norman, Grace Bumbry, Shirley Verrett, Simon Estes, Barbara Hendricks, Edward Said.