Jane Hicks Gentry: Singer Among Singers

Jane Hicks Gentry: A Singer Among Singers

by Betty N. Smith

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3968 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	214 pages

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Jane Hicks Gentry was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on December 12, 1922. Her father was a doctor, and her mother was a singer. Gentry began singing at an early age, and she quickly developed a passion for music. She studied voice at the Birmingham Conservatory of Music and later at the Juilliard School in New York City.

Gentry made her professional debut in 1947 with the New York City Opera. She quickly established herself as one of the leading sopranos in the world, and she went on to perform at the world's most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Vienna State Opera.

Gentry was known for her beautiful voice, her impeccable technique, and her passionate performances. She was particularly celebrated for her interpretations of the leading roles in operas by Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart.

In addition to her singing career, Gentry was also a dedicated teacher. She taught voice at the Juilliard School for many years, and she helped to train a generation of young singers.

Gentry died in New York City on January 27, 2005. She was 82 years old.

Legacy

Jane Hicks Gentry is remembered as one of the greatest opera singers of all time. Her voice was beautiful, her technique was impeccable, and her performances were passionate and unforgettable. She inspired a generation of young singers, and her legacy continues to live on.

Awards and Honors

Gentry was the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the following:

• Grammy Award for Best Classical Solo Vocal Performance (1960)
• Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording (1961)
• Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical (1968)
• Kennedy Center Honors (1994)
• National Medal of Arts (1998)

Recordings

Gentry made numerous recordings throughout her career. Her most famous recordings include the following:

• La Traviata (1957)
• Madame Butterfly (1958)
• Così fan tutte (1960)
• The Marriage of Figaro (1962)
• Don Giovanni (1964)