The American mezzo-soprano and soprano is 79 years old today.
La Verrett is heard here in the second act of Il trovatore opposite Luciano Pavarotti in the fall of 1976.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8vGx7WpIkQ
Happy Birthday Shirley Verrett
By La Cieca La Cieca
James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.
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