RICHMOND, Va., Oct. 1, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For six decades, singer John Brownlee had a life that was brilliant and exciting as he moved among the aristocracy and the musical greats. Glamour and glitter were not the only things that defined his existence -- his contributions proved to be crucial to the development of opera houses. An engaging look at the life and times of a great man awaits readers in Giovanni: The Life and Times of John Brownlee, the new book authored by Lloyd Bell.
The text begins with an in-depth look at Brownlee's humble beginning in Geelong, Australia, where he belonged to a family that kept a strong Scottish tradition of music in the home. Early on, Brownlee was exposed to music and had siblings who sang in the church choir. Under his father's guidance, he learned how to play the trumpet and eventually developed his talent. One day, the great Nellie Melba became his mentor and helped him rise up the ranks of entertainment, achieving many unforgettable accomplishments in the process. This book also contains astonishing details that recall how the singer became a virtual link between the golden age of opera and the period following.
Inspiring and entertaining, this multi-faceted story makes this not just a biography, but also a look at the times and many famous personalities in the decades from the twenties through the sixties. Giovanni: The Life and Times of John Brownlee is highly-recommended to Brownlee's fans as well as readers who enjoy showbiz stories. To order a copy, please visit www.Xlibris.com or call (888) 795-4274 today.
About the Author
The author received his Master of Music degree in voice from the Manhattan School of Music after having studied singing in London and Paris. In addition to being a singer, he served in various churches in Richmond, Virginia, as minister of music. He was also music critic for the Richmond Times-Dispatch for a number of years. It was after voice studies with John Brownlee that he began researching for this book. He had the man's personal diaries, letters, and other papers from which to work. The wonderfully engaging personality of the late Mrs. Brownlee was a constant inspiration.
Giovanni * by Lloyd Bell
The Life and Times of John Brownlee
Publication Date: November 6, 2002
Trade Paperback; $18.69; 290 pages; 978-1-4010-6304-7
Cloth Hardback; $28.79; 290 pages; 978-1-4010-6305-4
Members of the media who wish to review this book may request a complimentary paperback copy by contacting the publisher at (888) 795-4274 x. 7479. To purchase copies of the book for resale, please fax Xlibris at (610) 915-0294 or call (888) 795-4274 x. 7876.
For more information, contact Xlibris at (888) 795-4274 or on the web at www.Xlibris.com.