Jubilee Songs: Complete, as Sung by the Jubilee Singers of Fisk University, (Nashville, Tenn.) Under the Auspices of the American Missionary Association.
New York: Published by Biglow & Main, (1872). First complete edition, expanded over the 32-page edition. Original printed buff wrappers (9.75 x 6.38 inches), 64 pages. Some light wear and soiling; in very good condition. Item #20929
“This complete edition of the Jubilee Songs contains a number of new pieces, and is confidently believed to be as good a written expression of the soul and spirit of the spiritual songs of the colored people as it is possible to give.” A promotional compilation of the spirituals sung on tour by Fisk’s Jubilee Singers, words and music to such standards as “Go Down, Moses,” and “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot.” This expanded version adds 38 songs not included among the original 23 included in the earlier [32]-page version, and also includes an added introduction from E. M. Cravath of the American Missionary Association dated October 9, 1872; the introduction from Cravath dated March 1, 1872 includes the names of the nine Fisk men and women who made up the original touring singers: “Seven of the nine have been slaves, and were freed by the Emancipation Proclamation. The other two were born free, but have always lived in the South.” Southern & Wright, African-American Traditions in Song, Sermon, Tale, and Dance, 1600s-1920, 1347 (this edition). See Lib. Company. Afro-Americana, 5417 for the [32]-page edition.
Price: $950.00