Chattanooga Welcomes Home a Star
Chattanooga is buzzing with excitement as our very own Grace Moore, a famed soprano from the Metropolitan Opera, prepares to take the stage at the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium. This isn’t just any concert; it’s a heartfelt homecoming! The date is set for March 26, 1928, and the entire city has been gearing up for this momentous occasion since Grace announced she would return to perform for her hometown crowd.
A Grand Welcome
City officials have left no stone unturned in planning a grand celebration. Grace’s arrival will be met with an extravagant reception at the Patten Hotel the night before her performance, followed by a series of delightful lunches, teas, and dinners throughout the week. The arrangements committee, led by Mr. and Mrs. R.R. Davenport, has made sure that every detail reflects Chattanooga’s pride in Grace’s achievements. Other prominent community members, including Mr. and Mrs. Ed Finlay and Mr. and Mrs. W.E. Brock, are also lending their support to ensure that Grace feels the love and admiration from her fellow Chattanoogans.
The Concert of the Decade
As the big night approaches, the anticipation is palpable. The Chattanooga Times, our local paper, aptly calls it “the concert of the decade.” People are talking about how Grace will walk on stage, dressed in a stunning medieval robe that is sure to take everyone’s breath away. In fact, the excitement has reached such a fever pitch that even the thought of her performance sends shivers down the spine of many residents!
An Unforgettable Performance
When Grace finally takes the stage, she is bound to win over every heart in the auditorium. Just imagine the sight: a shimmering robe, golden locks cascading over her shoulders, and a voice that has enchanted audiences across both New York City and Paris. Her program is set to include beautiful arias like Haydn’s “Canzonnetta” and “Mi Chiamano Mimi” from La Boheme. Each aria is chosen to showcase her impressive technique and vibrant youthfulness.
The excitement doesn’t end there. Grace will also deliver French classics, including Duparc’s “Chanson Triste” and Debussy’s “Romance,” which promise to transport the audience right to the heart of Paris. Even the emotional English songs she has chosen to end the night, like “Danny Boy,” are bound to resonate deeply with her devoted fans.
Emotional Encore
No one will forget her final encore: an emotional rendition of “Home, Sweet Home.” The moment she opens her mouth to sing will likely bring tears to the eyes of many listeners. This will be the perfect send-off as the hometown girl reminds everyone why she is so cherished. Grace Moore isn’t just an opera star; she is, and always will be, a proud daughter of Chattanooga.
Legacy and Love
Over the coming years, Grace will take her talents to stages across the globe, including London and Paris, but this concert will remain etched in the hearts of everyone attending. Her journey was tragically cut short in 1947 when an airplane crash outside Copenhagen took her life. Yet, her legacy lives on, and her fans will always remember the magic of that concert night, celebrating their local star.
As we count down the days to March 26, let’s unite in love and admiration for Grace Moore, a remarkable talent who continues to inspire us all.
