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The Mrs. Manning I Know

In spite of her prolific composing and success in being published, biographical materials about Mrs. Manning are scarce. As of this date, I have found no letters or commentaries written by her to explain her thoughts or intentions related to her songs. What we as performers have to work with in developing our interpretations are on the printed page: markings by her or her editor, and the dedications, listed above the title of each song. These dedications, especially the ones to her parents and to her husband, Ned, fuel our imaginations. Thus with her glorious writing, flavors of places visited or imagined, personal experiences and personal dreams are enhanced when seen through the lens of those persons so special to her, those to whom the songs are dedicated. —Jane Foster

Jane Foster has appeared in opera and recital in Europe and the United States. She made her European operatic debut as Gilda (Rigoletto) as a guest artist with the Silesian Theater in Opava, Czech Republic. Since this debut, Jane has added many roles to her repertoire including the role of Elsa (Lohengrin) which she recently performed in concert in New York City. Her New York Debut Recital in Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall was devoted entirely to a program of French Romances & Mélodies. Of Jane's debut recital, music critic, Leighton Kerner said: “...Jane's artistry enabled her to penetrate to the core of the song.” For the past few years, Ms. Foster has devoted herself to the research, study, performance and recording of the Art Songs by American composer Kathleen Lockhart Manning. Not limiting herself to earlier works, Jane assisted Philadelphia composer Andrea Clearfield on the development of the cantata, The Long Bright.

Carla Mariani is an accomplished pianist who currently resides in Philadelphia, PA. In addition to her work with Jane, she has accompanied many other vocalists, instrumentalists and choir groups. She performed locally and internationally as accompanist and singer for a touring sacred music group in Germany, England and America for four years. Throughout her career, Carla has served as pianist/musical director for many theater groups, played in the Matinee Musical Club piano ensemble, worked as a church pianist and singer, and accompanied cabaret performers.