woman.life.song, personally commissioned by Jessye Norman in the 1990s, has been a showstopper for eminent Black sopranos for over two decades. Norman engaged three legendary writers – Maya Angelou, Clarissa Pinkola-Estes and Toni Morrison – and acclaimed British composer Judith Weir. Sitting behind the glittering celebrity is a simple and compelling universal story about a life from birth to youth, to old age to death. Premiered at Carnegie Hall, New York in 2000, we give the piece its own special Birmingham treatment in 2025.  

Leading us on the journey are BOC associate lead artists Gweneth Ann Rand and Allyson Devenish. We’re delighted that Judith Weir is supporting our ambition to develop the treasures of woman.life.song. 

Gabriella joins the team as Alto Chorus Mentor