Marvis Martin facts for kids
Marvis Lynn Martin, born on April 7, 1954, is a famous American opera singer. She is known for her beautiful singing in concerts and recitals. A soprano is a female singer with a high voice. She is especially famous for her performances of "Songs from the Auvergne" and as Bess in "Porgy and Bess."
The New York Times newspaper called her voice "bright and clear." She has won many awards for her singing. People praise her for her beautiful voice and how well she connects with the music. She has received many awards for her concert and opera performances.
Early Life and Musical Training
Marvis Lynn Martin was born in Tallahassee, Florida. But she grew up in Miami. She started singing professionally when she was only five years old. She studied music at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music. She earned a Bachelor of Music degree there in 1977. Later, she earned a master's degree from the Manhattan School of Music. She also learned from famous singers like Elisabeth Schwarzkopf.
A Career in Music
Martin began her professional career in 1981. She was part of the Young Concert Artists Series. The New York Times said she was "promising" and had great talent. In 1982, she sang for the first time with the Metropolitan Opera. She played the role of Pamina in "The Magic Flute".
Over the next few years, she won many awards. She received praise for her singing in concerts and operas. At the Metropolitan Opera, she performed in many operas. These included "Boris Godunov" and "Porgy and Bess".
As her career grew, she chose to focus more on recitals and concerts. She said she loved opera but not "all the hubbub" around it. She also slowed down her touring. She felt it was not a healthy way to live. She enjoys visiting new cities, but she likes her jobs to be spread out.
She has performed with many famous orchestras. These include the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. The conductor Zubin Mehta even chose a special piece for her to sing.
Martin especially enjoys performing in Florida. In 1987, her old school, the Frost School of Music, honored her. They named her a "Distinguished Alumni." In 1988, she won the "Florida Prize." This award was for $10,000. It recognized her amazing work in the arts.
Awards and Special Recognitions
- Florida Prize. Awarded by The New York Times Company in 1988.
- Distinguished Alumna. From the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami in 1987.
- Michaels Award of Young Concert Artists. Received at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center, New York, in 1981.
