Abstract:
Marilyn Home, American mezzo-soprano, debuted on the operatic stage in 1954 and retired from the operatic stage in 1996 and the classical stage in 1999. She sang nearly sixty opera roles, mostly bel canto, from the soprano, mezzosoprano, and contralto repertoire. She performed more than 1400 recitals during her classical career, and at the time of this writing (spring 2000), continued to sing pops concerts and recitals. Her importance in the American opera world as well as her diversity and longevity cause her to be a model worthy of study.Chapter one contains an introduction to Home's accomplishments and awards, and the procedures followed in the study. Chapter two outlines Home's early life and how it led to her successful career. Chapter three provides a comparison of Home's career to the careers of Pauline Viardot-Garcia, Rose Bampton, Janet Baker, and Giullietta Simionato. Chapter four is a discussion of Home's vocal technique and musicianship, while chapter five provides information on selected operatic roles and her importance in the Rossini revival. Chapter six presents Home's recital career, with special consideration of her performances on the William Jewell College Fine Arts Program and the formation of the Marilyn Home Foundation. Appendix A is an interview transcript that includes Home's thoughts about a number of her opera roles, recital planning, and various mentors and musical collaborators (such as Joan Sutherland and Henry Lewis). Other appendices include a list of Home's operatic roles, recital programs, and a selected discography and videography.Marilyn Home had a remarkable career, and her great longevity is a result of her technical virtuosity, intelligent choices, careful planning, and audience rapport. Home was an important figure in the American opera world. She was an avid student of her instrument and a zealous guard of her vocal resources. Future generations of singers need to consider the lessons that can be learned by examining Home's career. Home was a singer for all generations. She adds positive light to the title "diva," and she is a model worthy of accolades and study.