Research Catalog

Title

"Tell them we are singing for Jesus" : the original Fisk Jubilee Singers and Christian reconstruction, 1871-1878 / Toni P. Anderson.

Author

Anderson, Toni P., 1957-

Publication

Macon, Ga. : Mercer University Press, c2010.

Items in the Library & Off-site

Holdings

Details

Description

xvi, 299 p., [16] p. of plates : ill.; 24 cm.

Summary

Between 1871 and 1878, the Jubilee Singers presented concerts featuring the Negro spirituals that won the applause and admiration of the Western world. The rise and renown of the original Fisk Jubilee Singers form one of the most celebrated stories of post-Civil War America. Equally fascinating are the varied, multitudinous influences that converged to catapult them onto the world's stage and into the annals of history. "Tell Them We Are Singing for Jesus" explores the Christian missionary ideals and convictions that spawned the Fisk Jubilee Singers during the 1870s and guided the ensemble throughout its impressive US and European travels. This historic choral ensemble was sponsored by the American Missionary Association (AMA), the parent organization of Fisk University. The troupe's stellar success afforded the American Missionary Association an unprecedented public platform from which to advance its Christian views for social change. Fisk University's reputation was also enhanced as praise for the Jubilee Singers' artistic performances, noble mission, and refinement filled the press. Each company member stood as a living testimonial to the intellectual, cultural, and spiritual attainment of which all African Americans were capable. AMA leaders considered the Jubilee Singers as divinely appointed fellow laborers in attaining the lofty goals of Christian Reconstruction. Through a unique partnership that blended ministry and music, the AMA and the Jubilee Singers fought to establish a world in which the freedom message of the Negro spiritual rang true. - Publisher

Subject

• Jubilee Singers (Fisk University) > History > 19th century
• American Missionary Association > History > 19th century
• 1800-1899
• Geschichte 1871-1878
• Choirs (Music) > United States > History > 19th century
• African American singers

Genre/Form

• collective biographies.
• Biographies
• History
• Biographies.

Bibliography (note)

• Includes bibliographical references and index.

Processing Action (note)

• committed to retain

Contents

The roots of reconstruction : the American Missionary Association and Fisk University -- The birth of the Jubilee Singers : vision, mission, and divine blessing -- "Doing the work of the master" : developing a campaign strategy for Christian missions -- Broadening the campaign goals : Africa, affinity groups, and revival services -- Artistry and refinement : gaining public acclaim -- "The scar of the dark ages" : social standing in America and Europe -- "Infinite troubles" : practical application of American Missionary Association ideals -- The fruit of Christian reconstruction : leaders of the race.

ISBN

• 9780881461121 (hardback : alk. paper)
• 0881461121 (hardback : alk. paper)

LCCN

^^2010001203

OCLC

• 368024921
• SCSB-10243527

Owning Institutions

Harvard Library