Leontyne Price Quotes

A collection of quotes by Leontyne Price.

Leontyne Price is an American soprano and one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 20th century. Born on February 10, 1927, in Laurel, Mississippi, Price exhibited a love for music from an early age. She began her formal vocal training at the Juilliard School in New York City and quickly gained recognition for her powerful and versatile voice.

In 1955, Price made her operatic debut as Leonora in Verdi's "Il Trovatore" at the San Francisco Opera, captivating audiences with her stunning vocal range and dramatic interpretations. Her breakthrough came in 1957 when she debuted at the Metropolitan Opera as Leonora in "Il Trovatore" and went on to become the first African American to have a leading role with the company. This historic achievement paved the way for other African American artists in the opera world.

Price's vocal prowess spanned a wide range of repertoire, including works by composers such as Verdi, Wagner, Puccini, and Strauss. Known for her rich, velvety tone and impeccable technique, she excelled in demanding roles like Aida, Tosca, and Cleopatra.

Throughout her career, Leontyne Price received numerous accolades, including 19 Grammy Awards, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Kennedy Center Honors. Recognized as a trailblazer for African American artists in classical music, she remains an iconic figure in the opera world, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.