Born February 27, 1897, Marian Anderson encountered many challenges including poverty and denial to music schools due to her ethnicity, but surpassed them all to become a pioneer and the most celebrated contralto of the 20th century. She performed in operas around the world,was awarded several presidential recognitions, and was known as much for her commitment to help others as her trememdous artistic ability. As a result of her talent and extraordinary career, our broader culture has been immeasurably improved, and it is in the spirit of this unparallelled artist from Philadelphia that the Marian Anderfson Award was conferred. Founded in 1998, the Marian Anderson Award has been bestowed upon individuals who have used their talents for personal artistic expression coupled with a deep commitment to the betterment of society.*This year's recipient of the Marian Anderson Award was none other than the venerable Bill Cosby (or Heathcliff Huxtable as many of us know him!). Mr. Cosby broke television's racial barrier with a role in I Spy, becoming the first African American to co-star on a television series and win three consecutive Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a dramatic series. He continued on to contribute immeasurably to the fields of television, stage, music and education. I have long believed that arts education is a crucial part of the development of our youth. It teaches focus, commitment and creativity, all the while offering alternative means of communicating ones thoughts and emotions.
This ceremony proved to be quite the celebration with performances by the Philadelphia Orchestra; the stunning, highly acclaimed African American mezzo-soprano, Denyce Graves; the mesmerizing jazz vocalist Lizz Wright; the hilarious comedian and fellow Philadelphia native Dave Brenner; pianist Yang Bao; and -wait for it- Boyz II Men!! It was almost too much to take in--LOL! I was just getting over hearing Ms. Graves and Ms. Wright (both of whom I have followed for years) and then out walks Boyz II Men.... what an ensemble! Throughout the evenings festivities I found myself looking around and realizing how blessed I was to be able to take part in such an honorable event, in memory of a strong African American woman, celebrating an African American pioneer in the entertainment industry, as a representative of the State of Pennsylvania!
In His service...
* From the Marian Anderson Award Mission Statement
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