Paul Robeson's Voices

Paul Robeson's Voices explores the intersection of Robeson's singing, life, and politics, examining his voice as a sound object and sounding gesture. It combines archival research with musicological theory to document his vocal and self-discovery, challenging concert singing traditions and manifesting resistance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Paul Robeson's Voices is a profound exploration of the artist's life through his singing, delving into the intricate nuances of his voice as both a sound object and a sounding gesture. In his meticulously researched work, music historian Grant Olwage examines Robeson's voice across various contexts, including singing practices, recital performances, concerts, and recorded performances. Olwage's central question revolves around how the voice encapsulates modes of subjectivity and being, posing a profound inquiry into the essence of human expression.

Through a meticulous blend of deep archival research and musicological theory, this book offers a comprehensive study of voice as a central aspect of Robeson's identity and political convictions. It traces the dialectal process of Robeson's vocal and self-discovery, highlighting how his practice revolutionized the traditions of concert singing in the early twentieth century. Robeson's voice, resonant with resistance, became a powerful tool for conveying his messages of social justice and equality.

Paul Robeson's Voices is a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries and ignite change. It sheds light on the artist's remarkable journey, showcasing his talent as a singer and his unwavering commitment to using his voice for the greater good. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of musicology and a reminder of the profound impact that artists can have on society through their creative expressions.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 235 x 158 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197637487