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Sembrich Summer Festival: When Marian Sang | Bolton Landing | June 19, 2026

  • The Sembrich 4800 Lake Shore Drive Bolton Landing, New York, 12814 United States (map)

When Marian Sang: Honoring a Voice That Helped Change America

A remarkable evening of music, history, and liberty at The Sembrich on Lake George.

American opera diva and civil rights activist Marian Anderson.

Marian Anderson.

On Friday, June 19, 2026, When Marian Sang: A Tribute to Music, History, and Liberty comes to The Sembrich in Bolton Landing.

Part concert, part historical presentation, and part museum showcase, this special Adirondack cultural event celebrates the life and legacy of legendary contralto Marian Anderson through music, storytelling, and rare artifacts.

Set along the shores of Lake George, The Sembrich has long been one of the Adirondacks' most distinctive cultural venues. This one-night program offers visitors an opportunity to experience American history through the voice and story of one of the twentieth century's most influential performers.

 

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Music that shaped a life.

Presented by Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society CEO Jillian Patricia Pirtle, the evening explores the profound role that spiritual music played throughout Marian Anderson's life and career.

Pirtle, herself an accomplished vocalist, will be joined by Dr. Pyerce Oates for a performance of "Marian's American Spiritual Medley." The program highlights the American Negro Spiritual tradition that shaped Anderson's faith, artistry, and enduring connection to audiences around the world.

Expect moving interpretations of beloved spirituals including "Deep River," "I Don't Feel No Ways Tired," and "Sinner Please Don't Let This Harvest Pass."

The story behind the songs.

The evening goes beyond performance.

Pirtle will share excerpts from speeches Anderson delivered on equality, freedom, and the ongoing struggle for liberty. These readings offer insight into a woman who used her artistry not only to entertain but also to challenge barriers and expand opportunities for future generations.

For many visitors, the combination of music and historical context may prove just as powerful as the concert itself.

Marian Anderson performing. Photo credit - Michael Ochs Archives:Getty Images,

Rare treasures from the Marian Anderson Museum.

One of the program's most distinctive features is the presentation of artifacts from the Marian Anderson Museum.

Guests will have the opportunity to view select pieces from the museum's collection, including one of Anderson's performance gowns. These objects provide a tangible connection to a figure whose influence extended far beyond the concert stage.

For history enthusiasts, museum lovers, and anyone interested in the intersection of culture and social change, this portion of the evening offers a rare glimpse into an extraordinary life.

Discover the woman behind the voice.

Before attending the program at The Sembrich, visitors can gain additional insight into Marian Anderson's remarkable career and lasting impact on American culture through this short video.

A look at the life, music, and legacy of Marian Anderson, whose groundbreaking career continues to inspire audiences around the world.

This video provides helpful historical context for visitors attending When Marian Sang in Bolton Landing and the Lake George region of the Adirondacks.

ADK Taste insight.

While Marian Anderson is often remembered for her historic 1939 performance at the Lincoln Memorial, her influence stretched far beyond a single moment. Through decades of performances, recordings, and public advocacy, she helped reshape opportunities for future generations of American artists.

Programs like this one remind audiences that music can preserve history while bringing it vividly into the present.

ADK Taste recommendation.

Arrive 30 minutes early and spend a few moments enjoying the lakeside grounds before the program begins. The post-event reception offers a chance to reflect on the performance while taking in one of Lake George's most beautiful cultural settings.

A unique Adirondack cultural experience.

Summer visitors often associate the Adirondacks with hiking trails, mountain views, and lakeside adventures. Events like When Marian Sang showcase another side of the region—its rich tradition of arts, music, and cultural programming.

Opera performer Marian Anderson performing with a pianist accompanist.

For travelers exploring Bolton Landing, Lake George, and the surrounding Adirondacks, this thoughtful evening offers a memorable blend of performance, history, and reflection.

Following the program, guests are invited to a lakeside reception.

For tickets, updates, and additional information, visit The Sembrich's official website.

For more hand-picked Adirondack events, food discoveries, and travel inspiration, subscribe to ADK Taste's weekly newsletter, In Good Taste. It's the easiest way to stay connected to what's happening across the Adirondacks all season long.

Event details

When: Friday, June 19, 2026, 7 pm

Where:
The Sembrich
4800 Lake Shore Drive
Bolton Landing, NY 12814

Admission: $40

Reception: Lakeside reception following the program

FAQ

What is When Marian Sang?

A special program at The Sembrich combining live music, historical storytelling, museum artifacts, and reflections on the life and legacy of Marian Anderson.

Where is the event being held?

The event takes place at The Sembrich in Bolton Landing on Lake George in the Adirondacks.

Who is presenting the program?

Jillian Patricia Pirtle, CEO of the Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society, along with Dr. Pyerce Oates.

Will there be live music?

Yes. The evening includes a performance of "Marian's American Spiritual Medley," featuring several beloved spirituals associated with Marian Anderson.

Are museum artifacts included?

Yes. Guests will view selected items from the Marian Anderson Museum collection, including one of Anderson's performance gowns.

Is there a reception after the event?

Yes. A lakeside reception will follow the program.

How can I buy tickets?

Visit the Sembrich website for more information about the event.


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