"Performing and creative artists are an integral part of the stories we tell and the voices we empower" - Bri Cooper, Founder of 728 Media Productions

The selections in this video were inspired by the stories my mother shared with me about being in the audience during Marian Anderson's historical concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday in 1939. My mother, Nannie Coles Cooper was an inspiration and shared her love of music with me. Many people did not know that she studied music to become an opera singer, but during that time, she had to choose between being an Opera Singer. I hope you enjoy this video and thank you so much for allowing me to share her story.

In 1939, Marian Anderson gave her historic performance on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. She did not do it alone, she had the support of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, Department of Interior, Harold Ickes, Howard University and more. It started out with one question. What happened to the Steinway performed on during the concert. Let's find out!

Discussing Equity in the Arts with Guest Trailblazer: Marilyn Gilbert, Attorney at Law, Opera Singer, and Co-Founder of Opera Santa Barbara. With a performance by Mezzo Soprano, Bri Cooper.

Enjoy this concert with special guest Elisabeth Agnethe Anderson, a critically acclaimed opera singer in Italy. We talk about the impact the pandemic has on the arts in Italy, and she sings a few special selections!