Famous American Opera Singers

Leontyne Price is an iconic American spinto soprano known for breaking racial barriers in opera. She achieved international acclaim as the first African American soprano to do so, captivating audiences with her powerful performances in leading roles at prestigious opera houses worldwide. Renowned for her portrayal of Aida in Verdi's opera, Price's career spanned over two decades at the Metropolitan Opera, solidifying her status as one of the century's preeminent opera singers. Her legacy lives on through numerous acclaimed recordings and a multitude of prestigious awards.

Jessye Norman was a renowned American opera singer and recitalist known for performing dramatic soprano roles. Her operatic career began in Europe, winning the ARD International Music Competition in Munich in 1968, leading to a contract with the Deutsche Oper Berlin. She made her U.S. debut in 1982 and went on to sing at prestigious venues worldwide. Norman recorded music by various composers, winning multiple Grammy Awards. She also received numerous honors, including the National Medal of Arts and the Légion d'honneur.

Renée Fleming is a renowned American soprano known for her versatile performances in opera, concerts, recordings, theater, and film. She has received prestigious awards such as the National Medal of Arts and has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards. Fleming's career spans various genres and languages, including opera, lieder, jazz, and indie rock. She has collaborated with esteemed artists, acted on Broadway, and recorded songs for award-winning films. Fleming is also recognized for her advocacy of music's impact on health and neuroscience, making her a respected public speaker in the field.

Beverly Sills was an American operatic soprano renowned for her performances in coloratura soprano roles from the 1950s to the 1970s. She excelled in operas by Donizetti, with signature roles including Lucia di Lammermoor, Manon, and Elisabetta in Roberto Devereux. Sills was praised for her ability to deliver both legato lines and dazzling fioriture with thrilling high notes. After retiring from singing in 1980, she held leadership positions at the New York City Opera, Lincoln Center, and the Metropolitan Opera. She also dedicated herself to charity work for birth defects prevention and treatment.

Marilyn Horne is an accomplished American mezzo-soprano opera singer known for her exquisite tone, strong breath support, and proficiency in executing challenging coloratura passages. Throughout her illustrious career, she has garnered acclaim for her performances in roles that showcase her vocal prowess. Horne is a distinguished recipient of the National Medal of Arts and the Kennedy Center Honors, in addition to winning four Grammy Awards for her exceptional contributions to the world of opera.

Risë Stevens was an acclaimed American operatic mezzo-soprano and actress known for her exceptional performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. During her illustrious career spanning over two decades, she captivated audiences with her portrayals of the central character in Georges Bizet's Carmen. Stevens also made significant contributions as the director of the Metropolitan Opera National Company from 1963 to 1968, showcasing her versatility and leadership in the world of opera.

William Warfield was a renowned American concert bass-baritone singer and actor, recognized for his performances in stage productions, Hollywood films, and television shows. As a prominent African American artist during the Civil Rights era, he collaborated with various notable figures, showcased his talents on international tours representing the United States, and shared his expertise by teaching at academic institutions. His remarkable career was highlighted by receiving prestigious accolades, including a Grammy Award in 1984, cementing his legacy as a distinguished artist in the music and entertainment industry.

Thurl Ravenscroft was an American actor and bass singer known for his iconic voice work, including providing the booming voice of Tony the Tiger for Kellogg's Frosted Flakes for over five decades. He was also the uncredited vocalist for the song "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" from How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Ravenscroft's voice-over work extended to Disney, where he contributed to various films and attractions at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, such as The Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Enchanted Tiki Room. His voice acting career spanned from 1939 until his passing in 2005 at age 91.

Megan Marie Hart is an American operatic soprano known for her exceptional performances in leading operatic roles and concerts in both America and Europe. With roots in Eugene, Oregon, she has established herself as a highly regarded artist in the opera world. Her captivating voice and artistic expression have garnered critical acclaim, leading to numerous successful performances on prestigious stages. Megan Marie Hart's professional career is marked by a dedication to her craft and a passion for bringing characters to life through her powerful and emotive singing.

Nelson Eddy was a renowned American actor and baritone singer known for his appearances in 19 musical films during the 1930s and 1940s, as well as opera and concerts. He achieved fame for his collaborations with soprano Jeanette MacDonald in eight films. Eddy was a pioneering "crossover" star, captivating audiences ranging from bobby soxers to opera enthusiasts. Throughout his 40-year career, he received multiple accolades, including stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, gold records, and performances at prestigious events like President Franklin D. Roosevelt's inauguration. Eddy's influence extended to inspiring a new generation of musicians.

Shirley Verrett was a renowned American operatic mezzo-soprano who skillfully transitioned into soprano roles, earning the title of Soprano sfogato. Enjoying immense fame from the late 1960s to the 1990s, she was especially acclaimed for her interpretations of the works of Giuseppe Verdi and Gaetano Donizetti. Verrett's professional life was marked by her exceptional vocal abilities, versatility, and captivating stage presence, solidifying her reputation as one of the leading sopranos of her time.

Anna Moffo was an American opera singer, television personality, and actress known for her warm and radiant lyric-coloratura soprano voice. She gained popularity in Italy after appearing in leading operatic roles on television. She made her debut at the Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Metropolitan Opera in the late 1950s. Moffo recorded for EMI Records and RCA Victor and hosted her own show on Italian television. She extended her career to Germany in the 1970s but suffered a vocal breakdown in the early 1970s.

Robert Merrill was an American operatic baritone and actor known for his rich, powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. He was a prominent figure in the musical theatre circuit, captivating audiences with his performances in various productions. Merrill's talent and dedication earned him the prestigious National Medal of Arts in 1993, highlighting his significant contributions to the world of opera and music. Throughout his career, he showcased his versatility and artistry, leaving a lasting impact on the performing arts community.

Grace Melzia Bumbry was an acclaimed American opera singer known for her powerful mezzo-soprano voice and her versatility in soprano roles. She was a trailblazer among African-American classical singers, gaining international recognition for her performance as Venus in Tannhäuser at the 1961 Bayreuth Festival. Bumbry's vocal range, agility, and dramatic intensity on stage were highly praised, particularly in roles like Eboli in Verdi's Don Carlo. Later in her career, she focused on recitals, lieder interpretation, and teaching, primarily in Europe.

Rosa Ponselle was an acclaimed American operatic dramatic soprano, renowned for her performances at the New York Metropolitan Opera. Considered one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century, she captivated audiences with her powerful and emotive voice. Ponselle's professional career was marked by numerous successful performances in leading roles, earning her international recognition and admiration. Her vocal talent and artistic interpretations solidified her reputation as a legendary figure in the world of opera, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of classical music.

Kathleen Battle is an American operatic soprano acclaimed for her unique vocal range and tone. She gained recognition in the concert repertoire before transitioning to opera in 1975. Known for her versatility, Battle excelled in lyric and coloratura soprano roles. Despite a dismissal from the Metropolitan Opera in 1994, she continued to focus on recording and concert performances. After a 22-year hiatus, Battle returned to the Met in 2016 for a spirituals concert, followed by another performance in 2024.

Eric Owens is an esteemed American operatic bass-baritone with a successful career performing at renowned opera houses worldwide, including the San Francisco Opera, the Royal Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. He has received accolades such as multiple Grammy Awards and the prestigious Marian Anderson Award. Notably, Owens emerged victorious in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in 1996, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and accomplished performer in the opera world.

Richard Tucker was a renowned American operatic tenor and cantor known for his long association with the Metropolitan Opera. His career was mainly focused in the United States, where he established himself as a leading figure in the opera world. Tucker's powerful and emotive voice captivated audiences, earning him critical acclaim and numerous accolades. With a repertoire spanning a wide range of roles, he became a respected and influential figure in the opera community, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

Regina Resnik was an American opera singer with a career spanning five decades. She initially sang as a soprano before transitioning to mezzo-soprano repertoire under conductor Clemens Krauss' guidance. Resnik had a long association with the Metropolitan Opera and also performed with other major American and European opera houses. In the mid-1980s, she shifted towards musical theater. Resnik also worked as a stage director in collaboration with her husband, Arbit Blatas, and was a voice teacher at various music conservatories, including the Juilliard School.

Lawrence Tibbett was a versatile American opera singer, recording artist, film actor, and radio personality. As a baritone, he graced the stage of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City over 600 times from 1923 to 1950, showcasing his exceptional vocal talents. Tibbett also ventured into musical theatre, taking on various roles such as Captain Hook in Peter Pan during a touring production. His professional career was marked by a wide range of performances that highlighted his skill and passion for the arts.

Leonard Warren was a renowned American opera singer known for his exceptional talent as a baritone. He enjoyed a successful career as a leading artist with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where he captivated audiences with his portrayals of the main baritone roles in the operas of Giuseppe Verdi. Warren was highly regarded for his powerful voice, impressive range, and unparalleled vocal instrument, establishing himself as one of the top baritones of his time and earning a lasting legacy in the world of opera.

Helen Traubel was an American opera and concert singer known for her Wagnerian roles as Brünnhilde and Isolde. She began as a concert singer and later performed at the Metropolitan Opera. In the 1950s, she expanded her career to include nightclub and cabaret singing, television, films, and musical theatre. Traubel spent her later years in Santa Monica, California, where she passed away at the age of 73.

Jeanette MacDonald was an American singer and actress known for her iconic musical films in the 1930s with Maurice Chevalier and Nelson Eddy. She starred in 29 feature films, with four being nominated for Best Picture Oscars. MacDonald also had a successful recording career, earning three gold records. Beyond film, she ventured into opera, concerts, radio, and television, becoming one of the most influential sopranos of the 20th century. MacDonald's work introduced opera to film audiences and inspired a generation of singers.

Kathryn Grayson was an American actress and coloratura soprano known for her work in musicals and opera. She began her career as an opera singer at a young age and later transitioned to film, becoming a lead performer in popular movies like "Thousands Cheer," "Anchors Aweigh," "Show Boat," and "Kiss Me Kate." Grayson also showcased her talent in theatre productions such as "Camelot" and continued to impress audiences with her performances in various operas, including "La bohème," "Madama Butterfly," "Orpheus in the Underworld," and "La traviata."

Lorraine Hunt Lieberson was an American mezzo-soprano known for her exceptional performances of Baroque era and contemporary works. Her journey to becoming a singer was unique, as she initially pursued a career as a professional violist before transitioning to singing full-time in her thirties. Lieberson's talent and versatility allowed her to captivate audiences with her expressive interpretations and powerful vocal abilities. Throughout her professional life, she garnered acclaim for her artistry and became renowned for her remarkable contributions to the world of classical music.

William Horace Marshall was a multifaceted American actor, director, and opera singer known for his commanding presence and deep bass voice. He gained fame for portraying the title role in the 1972 film "Blacula" and its sequel, as well as his role as the King of Cartoons on the 1980s show "Pee-wee's Playhouse" and Dr. Richard Daystrom on "Star Trek." Standing at 6‘5” tall, Marshall's career spanned across various genres, showcasing his versatility and talent in the entertainment industry.

Astrid Varnay was a renowned American dramatic soprano known for her performances in Germany and the United States. She gained fame for her portrayals of characters in operas composed by Wilhelm Richard Wagner. Varnay's career was highlighted by her powerful and emotive vocal performances, earning her international acclaim. Her contributions to the world of opera were commemorated in the documentary Never Before, which received critical praise in the USA in 2004, solidifying her legacy as a celebrated opera singer.

Licia Albanese was a renowned opera singer known for her performances in recordings and live broadcasts. She made her mark as one of the first opera singers to appear widely on radio and recordings. Notable performances include Mimì in La bohème and Violetta in La traviata under Arturo Toscanini's direction. Albanese's recordings with RCA Victor, such as Carmen and Manon Lescaut, showcase her exceptional talent. She dedicated herself to mentoring young artists and received numerous awards and honorary degrees for her contributions to the arts.

Laura Bretan is a talented Romanian-American soprano known for her impressive performances on reality TV talent shows. She gained recognition by winning season six of Romania's Got Talent and later achieved a notable sixth-place finish on America's Got Talent. Her powerful vocals and emotive delivery captivated audiences and judges alike, showcasing her exceptional vocal range and skill. Bretan's success on these platforms has solidified her reputation as a rising star in the classical music industry, with a promising career ahead.

Barbara Hendricks is a renowned American operatic soprano and concert singer based in Europe since 1977, currently residing in Basel, Switzerland. With a successful international career, she is recognized for her exceptional vocal talent and versatility. Hendricks is celebrated for her performances in a wide range of operatic roles and concert repertoire. Her artistry and musicality have garnered critical acclaim worldwide, establishing her as one of the leading sopranos of her generation.

Jerry Hadley was a renowned American operatic tenor who achieved significant success in his career. He was the recipient of three Grammy awards for his exceptional vocal performances in various recordings, showcasing his talent and versatility. Mentored by Joan Sutherland and Richard Bonynge, Hadley was recognized as a leading American tenor for nearly two decades. His collaboration with Leonard Bernstein on the recording of Candide further solidified his reputation as a distinguished artist in both opera and Broadway performances.

Alma Gluck was a renowned lyric soprano known for her exceptional voice and musical talent. She achieved great success and recognition through her performances in opera, concerts, and recordings. Gluck's career flourished as she captivated audiences with her emotive and powerful vocal performances. Her artistry and dedication to her craft made her a respected figure in the music world. Gluck's legacy lives on through her recordings and contributions to the classical music repertoire, solidifying her status as a legendary soprano.

Fritzi Massary, an Austrian-American actress and soprano singer, was renowned for her exceptional talents in operetta singing. She captivated audiences in Vienna, Berlin, London, and Belgium with her mesmerizing performances. Massary's collaborations with esteemed composers such as Oscar Straus and Noël Coward further solidified her legacy in the world of music and theater. Her career was marked by numerous successful performances, showcasing her remarkable vocal range and theatrical prowess, making her one of the most beloved operetta singers of her time.

Evelyn Lear was a renowned American operatic soprano known for her exceptional musical versatility. Over her illustrious career, she portrayed more than 40 operatic roles on stages worldwide. She captivated audiences with her performances in leading roles for all major opera companies in the USA. In 1966, Lear's talent was recognized with a Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording for her compelling portrayal of the character in Berg's Wozzeck. Her legacy as a versatile and accomplished soprano continues to inspire opera enthusiasts globally.

Robert Keith McFerrin Sr. was an American operatic baritone renowned for his exceptional vocal range and quality. He made history as the first African-American man to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Critic Albert Goldberg praised his voice, noting its beautiful quality across all registers. McFerrin's talent and skill were evident in his performances, where he showcased a top range with a tenor's ringing brilliance. His legacy continues through his son, Grammy Award-winning vocalist Robert McFerrin Jr., known as Bobby McFerrin.

Grace Moore was a renowned American operatic lyric soprano, actress in musical theatre, and film star known as the "Tennessee Nightingale." She played a crucial role in popularizing opera to a wider audience through her films. Moore's talent and dedication earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in One Night of Love. Tragically, her illustrious career was cut short when she died in a plane crash at the age of 48. Her autobiography, You're Only Human Once, and the film So This Is Love further celebrated her life and contributions to the arts.

Joyce DiDonato is an esteemed American opera singer and recitalist known for her exceptional coloratura mezzo-soprano voice. She has showcased her talent in a diverse range of operas and concert works, from Romantic era pieces to compositions by Handel and Mozart. DiDonato's career took off in the mid-1990s through engagements with various opera companies and prestigious debuts at renowned venues like La Scala, the Royal Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. She has also been involved in world premiere performances of notable operas, garnering multiple Grammy Awards for Best Classical Vocal Solo.

Robert Todd Duncan was a pioneering African-American baritone opera singer and actor. He made history as one of the first African-Americans to perform with a major opera company. Duncan is best known for his portrayal of Porgy in the premiere production of the iconic opera "Porgy and Bess" in 1935. His powerful voice and exceptional talent not only broke barriers but also paved the way for future generations of African-American performers in the world of opera and theater.

Russell Oberlin was an American singer renowned for his role as a founding member of the vocal and instrumental ensemble New York Pro Musica. He gained fame as the first American countertenor to achieve popularity. In addition to his singing career, Oberlin served as a Professor of Music at Hunter College from 1966 to 1994. His contributions to music education and his pioneering work as a countertenor have left a lasting impact on the world of classical music.

American opera singer Dorothy Kirsten achieved her first major success after soprano Grace Moore sponsored her music education in Rome. Kirsten went on to have a distinguished career spanning three decades with the Metropolitan Opera. She is best known for her acclaimed interpretations of Giacomo Puccini's operas, particularly her roles in productions of "La Bohème" and "Madama Butterfly." Kirsten's talent and artistry solidified her reputation as one of the leading sopranos of her time, leaving a lasting impact on the world of opera.

Geraldine Farrar was an American lyric soprano known for her versatile abilities in both lyric and dramatic roles. She was admired for her beauty, acting skills, and the unique quality of her voice. In addition to her success in opera, Farrar also ventured into silent films during the 1910s, where she garnered acclaim for her performances. She developed a significant fan base, particularly among young women who were affectionately referred to as "Gerry-flappers" due to their admiration for her work.

Jerome A. Hines was an esteemed American operatic bass known for his commanding stage presence and powerful voice. He graced the Metropolitan Opera stage for over four decades, showcasing his talent in iconic roles such as Sarastro in The Magic Flute, Mephistopheles in Faust, Ramfis in Aida, and the title role of Boris Godunov. With a stature of 6'6", Hines' imposing physical presence enhanced his portrayals of characters like the Grand Inquisitor in Don Carlos and King Mark in Tristan und Isolde.

Brian Asawa was an acclaimed American countertenor known for his electrifying performances and exceptional voice. Praised for his fearless and expressive style, Asawa captivated audiences with his stunning vocal beauty and emotional depth. Throughout his career, he graced prestigious opera houses and concert stages worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on the classical music scene. Asawa's talent and passion for his craft earned him a reputation as a dynamic and unforgettable performer, solidifying his place as a revered figure in the realm of opera.

Lisette Oropesa is an accomplished American operatic soprano known for her exceptional performances across a wide range of repertoire, including works by renowned composers such as Gluck, Handel, Mozart, Rossini, Donizetti, Wagner, Verdi, Bizet, Massenet, Bellini, and Puccini. With a versatile lyric coloratura soprano voice, she has garnered acclaim for her roles in multiple languages, including Spanish, English, German, French, and Italian. Oropesa's professional career highlights her expertise in portraying characters like Susanna, Gilda, Konstanze, Lucia, and Manon, showcasing her talent and artistry on the opera stage.

Elisabeth Schumann was a renowned German lyric soprano known for her performances in opera, operetta, oratorio, and lieder. She established herself as a versatile and accomplished singer with a wide vocal range. Schumann left a lasting impact on the music world through her extensive recordings, showcasing her exceptional talent and musical interpretation. Her professional career was marked by critical acclaim and widespread recognition for her expressive and emotive performances across different genres of vocal music.

Mary Garden was a Scottish-American operatic soprano and mezzo-soprano known for her exceptional acting skills and nuanced performances. She rose to success in Paris, notably at the Opéra-Comique, and worked closely with composers like Jules Massenet. In 1907, she joined the Manhattan Opera House in New York and became a household name in America. Garden also had successful stints in Chicago, directing opera companies and staging world premieres. After retiring from the stage, she worked as a talent scout for MGM and gave lectures and recitals.

Sondra Radvanovsky is a renowned American and Canadian soprano specializing in 19th-century Italian opera. She is highly acclaimed for her interpretations of bel canto, verismo, and works by Giuseppe Verdi. Radvanovsky's extensive repertoire includes iconic roles in operas such as Norma, Tosca, Rusalka, Il trovatore, Macbeth, and Donizetti's "Tudor Queens". Her powerful and versatile voice has cemented her status as a leading interpreter in the opera world, captivating audiences with her performances across international stages.

Sissieretta Jones was an American soprano known as "The Black Patti," with a diverse repertoire including grand opera, light opera, and popular music. Trained at prestigious music institutions, she debuted in New York City and performed for several presidents and the British royal family. Jones achieved international success through tours in various continents. As the highest-paid African American performer of her time, she later founded the Black Patti Troubadours, a successful musical and acrobatic act. Jones retired in 1915 and was posthumously honored for her contributions to music.

Marjorie Moehlenkamp Finlay was a renowned American opera singer and television personality, known for her exceptional talent as a coloratura soprano. She gained recognition after winning a talent contest in 1950 and went on to showcase her vocal abilities through concert and opera performances. Finlay expanded her career by hosting her own television program and serving as an MC for various shows. She toured extensively, including in South America, and released an album in Mexico, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished artist.

June Anderson is an acclaimed American coloratura soprano, celebrated for her mastery of bel canto repertoire by composers such as Rossini, Donizetti, and Bellini. She has expanded her range to encompass diverse roles, including works from the Russian and Richard Strauss repertoires. Throughout her career, Anderson has graced prestigious opera stages worldwide, such as La Scala, Metropolitan Opera, and Covent Garden, collaborating with esteemed conductors like Leonard Bernstein and James Levine. Her exceptional talent has earned her numerous accolades, including a Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.

Richard Versalle was a renowned American operatic tenor known for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. He enjoyed a successful career performing in leading opera houses across the United States and Europe. Versalle was particularly acclaimed for his interpretations of roles in works by composers such as Mozart, Verdi, and Wagner. His performances were lauded for their emotional depth and technical skill, earning him a reputation as a versatile and talented singer in the world of opera.

Lillian Nordica was an American opera singer renowned for her powerful and flexible voice. She achieved great success on the stages of Europe and the United States, establishing herself as one of the leading dramatic sopranos of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Nordica was known for her ability to perform a diverse range of roles in the German, French, and Italian operatic repertoires. Her talent, versatility, and commanding stage presence solidified her reputation as a celebrated opera singer during her professional career.

Anne Brown was an American lyric soprano known for her portrayal of "Bess" in the original production of George Gershwin's opera Porgy and Bess in 1935. Gershwin rewrote the role specifically for her. Brown also had a successful career as a radio and concert singer. In 1948, she settled in Norway and eventually became a Norwegian citizen. Her professional life was marked by her significant contributions to opera and her ability to captivate audiences with her powerful voice and stage presence.

Ernestine Schumann-Heink was a renowned operatic dramatic mezzo-soprano known for the exceptional flexibility and wide range of her voice. Throughout her career, she captivated audiences with powerful performances in various opera roles, earning widespread acclaim for her vocal prowess. With a successful international career spanning several decades, Schumann-Heink became a celebrated figure in the world of classical music. Her talent and artistry solidified her legacy as one of the most distinguished mezzo-sopranos of her time, inspiring future generations of opera singers.

American mezzo-soprano Tatiana Troyanos was a prominent figure in opera, renowned for her exceptional vocal talent and versatility. Over a career spanning three decades, she showcased a wide range of roles and operatic styles, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Her performances, both on stage and in recordings, were praised for their depth, power, and emotional resonance. With a significant presence at prestigious opera houses such as the Metropolitan Opera, Troyanos solidified her reputation as one of the most distinguished singers of her generation.

Patricia Racette is an acclaimed American operatic soprano known for her exceptional performances in Puccini and Verdi operas. She has established herself as a prominent figure in the opera world, with long-term partnerships at major opera houses such as the San Francisco Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. Racette has also showcased her talent on the concert stage, collaborating with renowned orchestras worldwide. Noteworthy for her portrayal of various iconic roles, she has excelled in both traditional and contemporary opera productions, including several world premieres.

Margaret Harshaw was an acclaimed American opera singer and voice teacher known for her versatile vocal range and compelling acting skills. She performed at the Metropolitan Opera for 22 seasons, transitioning from mezzo-soprano to soprano roles during her career. Particularly renowned for her portrayals of Wagnerian heroines, she holds the record for the most Wagner roles performed at the Met. After retiring from the stage, she became a respected voice teacher at prestigious institutions and opera houses, sharing her expertise with aspiring young artists.

Camilla Ella Williams was a groundbreaking American operatic soprano who achieved numerous milestones in her career. She was the first African American to receive a regular contract with a major American opera company, the New York City Opera. Williams also made history as the first African American to sing a major role with the Vienna State Opera. Throughout her professional life, she garnered honors in vocal competitions, performed internationally, and served as a Professor of Voice at Indiana University, making significant contributions to the world of opera and music education.

Patricia Neway was an accomplished American musical theatre actress and operatic soprano. She gained widespread recognition for her performances at the New York City Opera and on Broadway in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1960, she received a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical for her role as the Mother Abbess in The Sound of Music. Neway's talent and dedication to her craft solidified her reputation as a versatile and highly respected performer in the world of musical theatre and opera.

Ruth Welting, an American operatic soprano, excelled in the coloratura soprano repertoire, notably at the Metropolitan Opera from 1976 to 1994. Her association with the Met solidified her reputation as a regular and esteemed performer. Welting's career was distinguished by her powerful coloratura voice, leaving a lasting impact on the opera world. Her performances showcased her exceptional talent and vocal range, earning her recognition and admiration among audiences and fellow artists alike.

Dawn Upshaw is an acclaimed American soprano known for her versatile performances in both opera and art song. She has received multiple Grammy Awards and Edison Awards for her recordings, showcasing a repertoire that ranges from Baroque to contemporary music. Upshaw's exceptional talent has inspired numerous renowned composers such as Henri Dutilleux, Osvaldo Golijov, John Harbison, Esa-Pekka Salonen, John Adams, and Kaija Saariaho to create works specifically for her. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to music, she was honored with a prestigious MacArthur Fellowship in 2007.

Arleen Auger was a renowned American coloratura soprano celebrated for her exceptional interpretations of Baroque and Classical music. With a repertoire encompassing works by Bach, Handel, Haydn, Monteverdi, Mozart, and Schubert, she captivated audiences worldwide with her exquisite vocal talent and artistry. Auger's career was marked by numerous accolades, including a posthumous Grammy Award for "Best Classical Vocal Performance" in 1994. Her legacy endures as a testament to her profound impact on the world of opera and classical music.

Richard Cassilly was a renowned American operatic tenor with a major international career spanning from 1954 to 1990. He excelled in Wagnerian roles such as Tristan and Siegmund, as well as in dramatic parts like Verdi's Otello and Saint-Saëns's Samson. Cassilly sang with major opera companies in North America and Europe, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, La Scala, and the Vienna State Opera. Known for his clear diction and musical intelligence, Cassilly established himself as a leading heldentenor with a supple lyric quality to his voice.

Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, known as "The Black Swan," was a prominent American singer during her time. Praised for her exceptional vocal abilities, she was recognized as the most well-known Black concert artist of her era. Revered for her sweet tones and broad vocal range, Greenfield was acclaimed by critics and audiences alike. She is often regarded as the first African American concert singer, making significant contributions to the world of music and breaking barriers in the industry.

Sibyl Sanderson, an American operatic soprano, began her career at Opéra-Comique in Paris. She gained recognition as a favorite of Jules Massenet, featuring in several of his operas, notably the enduring Manon. Sanderson's talent and artistry were instrumental in propelling the career of fellow soprano Mary Garden. Known for her exceptional performances and collaborations with renowned composers, Sibyl Sanderson left a lasting impact on the world of opera, solidifying her legacy as a significant figure in the operatic realm.

Emma Eames was an American soprano known for the beauty of her voice. She rose to fame in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, performing major lyric and lyric-dramatic roles in opera. Eames had a successful career in New York City, London, and Paris, captivating audiences with her powerful and emotive performances. Her talent and vocal prowess established her as one of the leading sopranos of her time, leaving a lasting impact on the opera world with her memorable interpretations and vocal artistry.

Barbara Bonney is a renowned American soprano known for her exceptional performances in lyric soprano roles in operas by Mozart and Richard Strauss. She is highly regarded for her interpretations of lieder, showcasing her versatility and artistry. Throughout her career, she has captivated audiences worldwide with her exquisite vocal technique and expressive performances. Bonney has collaborated with leading orchestras and conductors, solidifying her reputation as one of the most distinguished sopranos of her generation.

James McCracken was a renowned American operatic tenor known for his powerful and dramatic voice. He achieved great success during the 1960s and 1970s, becoming a pillar of the Metropolitan Opera. McCracken was widely regarded as one of the most successful dramatic tenors produced by the United States. His performances captivated audiences and critics alike, establishing him as a leading figure in the opera world. McCracken's talent and artistry left a lasting impact on the opera community and solidified his legacy as a legendary tenor.

Ganna Walska was a Polish opera singer and garden enthusiast known for creating the Lotusland botanical gardens in Montecito, California. Throughout her career, Walska performed in various opera productions, showcasing her musical talent and vocal abilities. She gained recognition for her unique voice and stage presence, captivating audiences with her performances. Walska's passion for both opera and gardening led her to establish the stunning Lotusland gardens, showcasing her creativity and dedication to horticulture. Her legacy continues to inspire opera lovers and garden enthusiasts worldwide.

Annie Louise Cary was a renowned American opera singer known for her rich dramatic voice and impressive three-octave range. She gained prominence in the late 19th century as the leading American contralto, captivating audiences with her commanding presence and mastery of the grand style. Cary's professional career was marked by numerous successful performances in both the United States and Europe, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the world of opera during her decade-long reign as a celebrated contralto.

Theodor Uppman, an American operatic baritone, is renowned for his portrayal of the title role in the opera "Billy Budd." Throughout his career, he graced prestigious venues like the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Uppman's influence extended beyond performances as he shared his expertise by teaching at esteemed institutions such as the Manhattan School of Music. His professional life exemplifies a dedication to the art of opera, leaving a lasting legacy through his iconic roles and contributions to music education.

Ellen Beach Yaw, an American coloratura soprano, gained fame for her remarkable vocal range. She is known for originating the lead role in Sir Arthur Seymour Sullivan's opera, "The Rose of Persia." Yaw's talent extended to recording, where she achieved widespread popularity as an artist. Her professional career was defined by her exceptional singing abilities and contributions to the world of opera and music. Ellen Beach Yaw remains a celebrated figure in the history of classical music for her vocal prowess and artistic achievements.

Mary Costa is an American retired actress and singer known for her iconic role as the voice of Princess Aurora in the 1959 Disney animated film Sleeping Beauty. She is recognized as the last surviving voice actress of the three Disney Princesses created during Walt Disney's lifetime. Costa was honored as a Disney Legend in 1999 for her contributions to the entertainment industry. In 2020, she received the prestigious National Medal of Arts in recognition of her outstanding achievements in the field.

Betty Allen was an American operatic mezzo-soprano known for her international singing career from the 1950s to the 1970s. She transitioned to a contralto-like voice later in her career, showcased in her recording of Prokofiev's Alexander Nevsky. She collaborated with prominent American composers like Bernstein, Copland, Diamond, Rorem, and Thomson. Allen was a trailblazer as one of the first successful black opera singers, breaking down racial barriers. Highly esteemed by Bernstein, she was chosen as a soloist for his final performances with the New York Philharmonic in 1973. Post-retirement, she excelled as a voice teacher and arts administrator.

Eleanor Steber was an influential American operatic soprano who achieved great success through training and performing in the United States. She was recognized as one of the first major opera stars to establish a thriving career without having to rely on European training or experience. Steber's exceptional vocal talent and artistry allowed her to captivate audiences with her performances in a wide range of operatic roles, cementing her legacy as a trailblazing figure in the world of opera.