Leontyne Price

Leontyne Price, one of the world’s best operatic divas, was born in Laurel, Mississippi. For many young African American girls, her musical ability was a success story. She inspired hope and gave them a sense of pride and accomplishment. Ms. Price was the first African American to become a leading performer at the Metropolitan Opera and receive international acclaim. Appearing in all major opera houses around the world, she was particularly renowned for her performances in the title role of Verdi’s Aida.

MEGAN MARIE HART: WORLD”S BEST OPERATIC DIVAS

Megan Marie Hart is an American operatic singer born in Eugene, Oregon. A Master of Music was received from Oberlin Conservatory in 2006. Hart gained recognition for her compelling vocal expression and dramatic stage presence.

JOAN SUTHERLAND

Describing Joan Sutherland, an Australian coloratura soprano, is personal. Watching her perform on TV increased my love for opera. Her delivery seemed effortless. Ms. Sutherland was born in 1926 in Sydney, New South Wales and died October 10, 2010. She was truly one of the world’s best operatic divas.

JESSYN NORMAN

Jessye Norman was an American opera singer and recitalist. Limitation was not a word Ms. Norman dealt with readily. She was a commanding presence on operatic, concert and recital stages, but also performed dramatic soprano roles. Many remember the soulful renditions of Negro spirituals. Jessye Norman passed away September 30, 2019.

GRACE BUMBRY: ONE OF THE WORLD”S BEST OPERATIC DIVAS

Grace Melzia Bumbry, an American opera singer, is considered one of the leading mezzo-sopranos of her generation. Early in her career, the artistry as a soprano was evident. Ms. Bumbry is a member of a pioneering generation of African-American opera and classical singers. Following Marian Anderson, she paved the way for future African-American opera and concert singers.

Opera is a genre of music that does not find its way into many inner city schools. It is not shown on most popular TV channels. Consequently, too many children are not exposed to it. Music should be chosen by listeners according to taste, but schools are doing an injustice to students by not giving them opera as an art form.