Customer Reviews

Simon Estes - In His Own Voice : An Autobiography

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This biography of classical singer Estes charts the rise of a grandson of a slave to a father who became a talented performing artist, singing for queens and kings and world leaders. A music cd displays the extent of his vocal talents while chapters reveal his childhood, upbringing, and involvements in the music world.

I ordered this book because back in 195l I was invited to Thanksgiving dinner at the Estes household in Centerville, IA, Simon Estes' sister was my roommate in college. After dinner the five children gathered around the piano and sang, accompanied by Mrs. Estes, their mother. I had never heard such glorious singing! I wanted to catch up on Simon Estes' life, so I ordered his book. What a wonderful inspiration this man is. The book has beautiful pictures of his family and of him in his various roles in operas around the world. The book is a heartwarming testament to a man who has done so much for the world through his school in South Africa and his charitable giving to underprivileged children. He also has had a concert hall named for him in Des Moines, IA. He tells his story humbly, and gives praise to his parents and to God for his success. Although he encountered racism, he has no bitterness, only gratitude for for his success. I highly recommend this story about a real American hero. The book would make a fabulous gift for anyone interested in opera, overcoming adversity, and inspiration. The book is full of beautiful photos and would make a nice coffee table book.

Since Simon Estes was scheduled to give a concert where I live, I wanted to have some background knowledge before I went. This book was just what I needed. It gave me a good feel for his life and character, with many pictures. The CD was a lovely recording of his best known songs. It made his performance even more special to me and gave me an insight into Simon Estes that I never would have had. I was fortunate enough to have him autograph it - now it is a real treasure.