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Holiday Music By Philadelphia Legend To Hit The Stage

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The National Marian Anderson Historical Society and Museum is putting on a concert to honor its namesake, one that will surely get you into the holiday spirit.

Marian Anderson broke color and gender barriers in her day, garnering her a place on the back of the new five dollar bill.

While she is known for her contralto voice, holiday music was among her favorite songs to sing. Anderson produced several Christmas albums and is featured on dozens of other renditions of holiday songs.

"She had a wide range of music stemming from the classics to the negro spirituals to the gospels," says Jillian Pirtle, the musician and historian who runs the National Marian Anderson Society and Museum.

Jillian Pirtle
Jillian Pirtle (credit: Cherri Gregg)

She says the "Christmas in Philadelphia Classics, Carols and Color Concert" will present a joyously nostalgic holiday performance of new and old music. Marian Anderson scholars will take the stage alongside professional world renowned musicians.

"We have Daniel de Jesus, a master musician, not only on the cello, he's traveled around the world with it," says Pirtle.

Other highlights include soprano Regina A. Smith, lyric baritone Donald Hunt and mezzo soprano Maureen Fratantoni. Pirtle, a soprano, will also perform, along with grand pianist and Anderson mentee, Blanche Burton Lyles.

"We wanted to honor Marian the best way we know how-- and that is musically," says Pirtle.

The concert is December 11th at The Ethical Society Theater in Rittenhouse Square. Proceeds benefit the Museum and the Marian Anderson scholars. Five new scholars will be inducted into the Marian Anderson Society.

You can purchase tickets here or by calling 215-779-4219.

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