Magic Moments of Music: Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman sing "Spirituals"

It’s March 18, 1990. The legendary stage of Carnegie Hall is aglow, illuminated by the voices of two legendary singers joining forces for a remarkable recital: dramatic soprano Jessye Norman and soprano Kathleen Battle. The two flamboyant personalities combine their sublime tones and sparkling charisma to celebrate a repertoire with a powerful cultural heritage: the African-American spiritual. A reflection of the exceptional artistry shared by both performers, this celebration of African-American culture made a lasting impact, not only for its brilliance but also for its powerful symbolism.  

The concert producer, Peter Gelb, and singers Queen Esther Marrow and Jocelyn B. Smith, among others, revisit the memorable moment in this episode of the Magic Moments of Music series. They explore the political and cultural significance of this performance by two artists who have profoundly influenced the visibility and recognition of artists of color in the operatic world. This recital transcends the realm of art to become part of a broader history: the story of civil rights and the recognition and transmission of African-American cultural heritage in an America historically marked by deep racial prejudice.