Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

May 31, 1931 in New Orleans, LA

Death

:

November 5, 2010 in Ann Arbor, MI

Genre

:

Opera

 

Shirley Verrett was an American mezzo-soprano opera singer who was born on May 31, 1931, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was the youngest of five children and grew up in a musical family. Her father was a church choir director, and her mother was a pianist. Verrett began singing in her church choir at a young age and showed a natural talent for music. Verrett attended Xavier University in New Orleans, where she studied music and earned a Bachelor of Music degree. She then went on to study at the Juilliard School in New York City, where she studied with the renowned voice teacher, Florence Berggren. Verrett's talent was quickly recognized, and she won several awards and scholarships during her time at Juilliard. Verrett made her professional debut in 1957, singing the role of Carmen in a production of Bizet's opera at the Opera Society of Washington. Her performance was a huge success, and she quickly became known for her powerful voice and dramatic stage presence. Verrett went on to perform in many of the world's leading opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House in London, and La Scala in Milan. One of Verrett's most famous roles was that of Dido in Berlioz's opera, "Les Troyens." She first performed the role in 1969 at the Royal Opera House in London, and it became one of her signature roles. Verrett's performance as Dido was praised for its emotional depth and powerful vocal performance. Verrett also had a successful career as a concert singer, performing with many of the world's leading orchestras. She was known for her interpretations of works by composers such as Mahler, Verdi, and Wagner. Verrett was also a champion of contemporary music and premiered several new works during her career. Throughout her career, Verrett received many awards and honors. In 1978, she was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Jimmy Carter, and in 1996, she was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Verrett was also a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors in 1996, which recognized her contributions to the performing arts. Verrett retired from performing in 1996, but she continued to be involved in the music world as a teacher and mentor. She taught at the University of Michigan and the University of California, Los Angeles, and she also gave masterclasses and workshops around the world. Verrett passed away on November 5, 2010, at the age of 79. She left behind a legacy as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos of the 20th century. Her powerful voice, dramatic stage presence, and commitment to the art of opera continue to inspire new generations of singers and musicians.

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