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Reginald Smith, Jr. is a renowned classical music artist who has made a name for himself in the industry with his powerful baritone voice and captivating performances. Born on August 8, 1993, in Augusta, Georgia, Smith grew up in a family of musicians and was exposed to music from a young age. His father was a gospel singer, and his mother was a pianist, which helped him develop a love for music. Smith's interest in music grew as he got older, and he began singing in his church choir. He also participated in various music competitions and festivals, where he showcased his talent and received recognition for his performances. Smith's passion for music led him to pursue a career in classical music, and he enrolled at the University of Georgia to study vocal performance. During his time at the University of Georgia, Smith honed his skills and gained valuable experience performing in various productions. He also participated in several competitions and won several awards, including the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) competition in 2015 and the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in 2017. Smith's breakthrough came in 2017 when he was selected as a participant in the prestigious Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program. The program is designed to provide young artists with the opportunity to develop their skills and gain experience working with some of the best professionals in the industry. Smith's participation in the program helped him gain exposure and recognition in the industry, and he was soon invited to perform in various productions. One of Smith's most notable performances was his portrayal of the role of Jake in the Metropolitan Opera's production of Porgy and Bess in 2019. The production was directed by James Robinson and conducted by David Robertson, and it received critical acclaim for its powerful performances and stunning visuals. Smith's performance as Jake was particularly praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, and it helped establish him as one of the most promising young artists in the industry. Smith has also performed in various other productions, including La bohème, Don Giovanni, and The Magic Flute. He has worked with some of the most renowned conductors and directors in the industry, including Yannick Nézet-Séguin, Robert Carsen, and Michael Mayer. Smith's performances have been praised for their powerful vocals, emotional depth, and captivating stage presence. In addition to his work in opera, Smith has also performed in various concerts and recitals. He has collaborated with several orchestras, including the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and the National Symphony Orchestra. Smith's performances in concerts and recitals have been praised for their versatility and range, as he is able to perform a wide variety of musical styles with ease. Smith's talent and hard work have earned him several awards and recognitions throughout his career. In addition to his wins at the NATS competition and the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, he has also received the Richard Tucker Career Grant and the Marian Anderson Vocal Award. These awards are a testament to Smith's talent and dedication to his craft, and they have helped establish him as one of the most promising young artists in the industry.

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