Marian Anderson

singer · civil rights · classical music · hero

Incredible voice. Marian Anderson was a contralto, which means she had a deep, rich singing voice. She could sing all kinds of music, from fancy opera to beautiful spirituals (traditional songs with deep roots in African American culture).

World traveler. Between 1925 and 1965, she performed with famous orchestras and in major concert halls all across the United States and Europe. People everywhere wanted to hear her sing!

Broke barriers. At a time when Black people faced unfair treatment, Marian Anderson refused to accept being treated as less than. Her talent and grace helped change how people saw what was possible.

Shaped history. Anderson's success as a classical singer opened doors for other Black musicians and showed the world that musical genius knows no color. She became a symbol of strength and dignity during the civil rights movement.