Jane Foster's Recitals
Jane Foster, soprano has always loved singing songs by well-known artists and composers. She currently performs recitals showcasing the art songs of
Kathleen Lockhart Manning.
Her rendition of Mrs. Manning’s music is inspired by the composer’s enigmatic creative process.
Who is Kathleen Lockhart Manning?
Kathleen Lockhart Manning is an American composer born in California in 1890. She was a piano prodigy and began composing at the age of 5. She traveled the world studying, performing, and experiencing life. Ultimately, she focused on composing music. Her art songs are her greatest body of work.
What is an Art Song?
Art song is poetry set to music. It is widely regarded as poetry integrated in the vein of classical music.
The Mrs. Manning I Know
“In spite of her prolific composing and success in being published, biographical materials about Mrs. Manning are scarce. As of this date, I have found no letters or commentaries written by her to explain her thoughts or intentions related to her songs. What we as performers have to work with in developing our interpretations are on the printed page: markings by her or her editor and the dedications listed above the title of each song.
These dedications, especially the ones to her parents and to her husband, Ned, fuel our imaginations. Thus, with her glorious writing, flavors of places visited or imagined, personal experiences and personal dreams are enhanced when seen through the lens of those persons so special to her, those to whom the songs are dedicated.”
—Jane Foster