Jessye Norman Biography

Jessye Norman

Known for her stage presence, vocal range, and her ability to convey emotion, Jessye Norman is one of the world's most respected opera singers. In 1969 Norman debuted as Elisabeth in Richard Wagner's Tannhäuser in Berlin. Other notable roles include the title role in Aïda, Cassandra in Berlioz's Les Troyens, as well as roles in Alceste, Erwartung (Anxiety), and Les Dialogues des Carmelites (The Dialogues of the Carmelites). In addition to her operatic performances, Norman has performed recitals, singing arias, art songs, and spirituals.