March 14, 2007 Librarian of Congress Congratulates Thomas Hampson on Receiving Honorary Membership in Society of American Music

Press Contact: Erin Allen (202) 707-7302

Baritone Thomas Hampson was awarded an honorary membership by the Society for American Music in Pittsburgh on March 1 during the opening day of its annual conference. A champion of American music, the singer was selected in recognition of the recent “Song of America Tour” for the Library of Congress, as well as his many recordings of American music and the work he does through his Hampsong Foundation.

“With his performances and scholarship in American concert songs, Tom Hampson has brought this important musical genre to new audiences all over the world, raising awareness and appreciation in every concert-goer. It is gratifying that the Society for American Music is recognizing and honoring his work with this prestigious award,” said Librarian of Congress James H. Billington.

The Society for American Music presents an honorary membership each year to a well-known, prominent figure who has made important contributions to the field of American music. Past honorees include Library of Congress Living Legend Gunther Schuller, Van Cliburn, Mike Seeger and Loretta Lynn.

In 2005-2006, the 11-city “Song of America” tour celebrated the history of creativity in America by highlighting the Library’s unparalleled collections of songs through concerts, recordings and webcasts.

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PR 07-047
2007-03-14
ISSN 0731-3527