About The Book
This book tells the story of an African American family’s determination to provide their two girls with classical piano lessons at the finest musical institution in Baltimore. Indeed a rarity during the 60’s and 70’s. Why? Because, at that time the African American student population at Peabody Preparatory was a mere five percent. Our parents always kept us abreast of the civil rights marches and protests. We were fully aware of the historical facts about eating at the Woolworth’s lunch counter. Our monthly Woolworth’s lunch experiences kept these thoughts vividly in our minds. Another primary goal of this book is to empower readers with knowledge about growing up in the midst of civil rights unrest. In addition, this story tells how two young African American girls triumphed and studied at the prestigious Peabody Preparatory Institute.
The Architects of the Narrative
From early childhood, sisters Marilyn and Claudia Barber have shared a lifelong passion for music, learning, and service. Raised in Baltimore, their musical journey began with piano lessons and performances in church choirs, where Marilyn played for the Children’s Choir at Refuge Way of the Cross Church and later directed the Youth Choir, while Claudia studied under music teacher Norma Robinson and went on to earn the “Best Poetic Pianist” Award at Peabody Preparatory Institute of Music. Together, they often performed as the Barber Sisters Duet at area churches, blending harmonies that reflected their deep family and spiritual roots.
Get in Touch
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