Editor’s note: The following is the last of three columns adapted from remarks given at the Aspen Music Festival and School’s opening convocation on June 16.
Last summer, Jessye Norman was the Harman-Eisner artist in residence at the Aspen Institute. She gave a Words and Music program presented by the Institute and came to our Opera Theater Center to speak to all of our singers, pianists, coaches, teachers and staff.
We had expected an inspiring story about her career: Her tremendous successes and the struggles that led to them, bits of advice from the height of her achievement that would inspire the hard work we have to go through in the early years of our careers. The subtext might be, “Someday, if you work hard enough, you can be like me!”
But this was the day after Beverly Sills had died, and Jessye Norman was instead wrapped in contemplation of her friend’s marvelous life.
Beverly Sills triumphed over immense personal difficulties and presented an unfailingly positive and generous face to the world.
She radiated incomparable technique and artistry with an appearance of ease and grace that was especially meaningful to those who knew how hard things really were for her. But more than that, when the moment came for her to retire from the stage, when she would never again have whatever happiness her triumphs in performance had brought her, Beverly Sills turned immediately to a life of service to everyone who loves music.
Jessye Norman said, “Be a wonderful musician, but also be a true citizen! Volunteer in your community: Serve Meals on Wheels or read to the elderly. It doesn’t have to be about music. Then, when you are helping someone, say, ‘I am a musician,’ with pride and conviction.”
At the Aspen Music Festival and School, we have a unique place in this community. We believe we truly serve it, and we know that the community supports and values us. That is a happiness that’s secure and real and that we depend on.
Alan Fletcher is president and CEO of the Aspen Music Festival and School.
