Marian Anderson's contralto voice sang out in the twentieth century, and her life testified to her passion for music and the power of her voice to speak directly to the soul. Encountering societal resistance as an African-American seeking educational and professional opportunities, she persevered and established a career as a recitalist in the United States and Europe. Her 1939 Easter Concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial reached a vast audience. With her historic 1955 operatic debut, Anderson became the first African-American performer to appear in a major role with the Metropolitan Opera. She wished to be recognized first and foremost for the artistic excellence exemplified in her concert, operatic, and recorded performances. Issues of justice and equality were close to her heart, and her musical triumphs were complemented by significant humanitarian achievements, including service as a delegate to the United Nations. From her birth in Philadelphia in 1897 until her death in 1993, Marian Anderson lived a life of passionate song.