“When Marian Sang”

A Tribute to Music, History, and Liberty

The life and career of world-renowned singer Marian Anderson will be celebrated at The Sembrich in a program presented by Jillian Patricia Pirtle, the CEO of the Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society in Philadelphia.

Miss Pirtle, who is a singer herself, will be joined by Dr. Jay Fluellen, Director of Music at the museum for a performance of “Marian's American Spiritual Medley.” This musically curated piece explores the great importance of the American Negro Spiritual in Marian Anderson's life, her faith and her career. Some of the highlighted songs in the arrangement include “Deep River,” “I Don't Feel No Ways Tired” and “Sinner Please Don't Let This Harvest Pass.”

In addition to the musical performance, Miss Pirtle will deliver excerpts from a speech that Marian Anderson gave on the struggle for equality and liberty – and unveil a selection of items from the Marian Anderson Museum, including one of the singer’s performance gowns.

Followed by a lakeside reception.

For tickets and more information visit: https://www.thesembrich.org/festival/2026/when-marian-sang