Composer

:

Dorothy Rudd Moore

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1979 - 1985

'Frederick Douglass' is an opera composed by Dorothy Rudd Moore, which premiered on February 17, 1991, at the University of Michigan. The opera is based on the life of Frederick Douglass, an African American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman who escaped slavery and became a leader in the abolitionist movement. The opera is divided into three movements, each representing a different period in Douglass's life. The first movement, "Escape," depicts Douglass's escape from slavery and his journey to freedom. The second movement, "Abolitionist," focuses on Douglass's work as an abolitionist and his involvement in the Underground Railroad. The final movement, "Statesman," portrays Douglass's later years as a statesman and his role in the fight for civil rights. Moore's composition is characterized by its use of traditional African American musical forms, including spirituals, gospel, and blues. The opera also incorporates elements of classical music, including arias and recitatives. The plot of the opera follows Douglass's life from his early years as a slave to his later years as a statesman. The opera begins with Douglass's escape from slavery and his journey to freedom. It then follows his work as an abolitionist and his involvement in the Underground Railroad. The final movement portrays Douglass's later years as a statesman and his role in the fight for civil rights. Overall, 'Frederick Douglass' is a powerful and moving opera that celebrates the life and legacy of one of America's greatest social reformers. Through its use of traditional African American musical forms and its portrayal of Douglass's life, the opera serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

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