dsings@dbrmusichistory.com
Devonna B. Rowe, Performing Artist/Educator
There are so many things that I enjoy as a singer and as a teacher. I get the opportunity to share music and all that it has to offer with people throughout the world. The words of a song can often bring communication to a different level. Language barriers can be overcome through a song. Concepts that often challenge our young people are made clear through music. With this in mind it is with great joy that I involve my young audiences in what they learn by involving them body, mind and spirit through music and the arts.
My singing career began very early when at the age of three I sang my first solo in front of an audience. Preparations for this day started with my mother who sang to me and with me on our front porch swing in North Carolina. She had no idea at the time how these moments would impact my life. You see, most of the summer evenings at home were spent on the porch or in the yard. Air conditioning was not a luxury afforded us. We paid no attention to the evening's heat because we filled the air with songs and words. Often neighbors would come over or sit on their porches either to listen or to join in as we sang.
My father had stories of old to tell. Some were true and some were folk tales that he had been told as a child. After listening to the way he had of bringing a story to life I felt that I was there during the time that the story was set or as if I knew the characters. That which was real or truth and that which was not was always a part of the story. His words in the story were comforting and I liked hearing the sound of his voice.
As I was cradled in the arms of words, of stories and songs I felt the love of my parents. Summer evenings were rich with the sound of their voices. Summer evenings and the rest of my years as I lived with them as a child became places where good memories are made.
In college, as a music student the songs and stories of my youth were very much a part of me. With a BA in Music Education and a MM in Vocal Performance involving young people in positive learning experiences through the arts has been my life and joy. Traveling as a singer to many countries has given me the opportunity to experience again what I learned listening to the stories and songs of my parents. The human voice has the power to touch deep within. This is a lasting memory and when moved by music or the melody within the spoken voice it's impact is everlasting. College afforded me the opportunity to fine tune much of what was already there. Summer Evenings on my porch in the swing singing songs and living life through the stories told.
Devonna B. Rowe has taught grades 1-12 and on the college level. She has traveled throughout the United States and Europe performing opera, oratorio and as an artist and educator. Trips to Japan and Russia have given her the opportunity to experience the lives of the people through their music and culture. Currently she is a member of the Voice Faculty at Morgan State University and adjunct faculty member, Peabody Institute/John Hopkins University. Her students continue to place in major vocal competitions and to become a part of performing arts organizations and graduate school programs throughout the country.
Devonna is member of The National Association of Teachers of Singing. She is an artist with the Maryland State Arts Council's Artist In Education Program, United Arts and the Southern Arts.
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