International opera sensation, Grace Bumbry, who became one of the first African Americans to conquer the international opera stage, died May 7 at a hospital in Vienna, Austria.
Bumbry died at the age of 86, her publicist David Brewer, shared the news on Monday. Bumbry, a remarkable mezzo-soprano and soprano, achieved a historic milestone by gracing the stage at the esteemed Richard Wagner Festival in Bayreuth back in 1961. This ground-breaking achievement served as an inspiration for countless other black ladies who sought recognition in the world of opera.
Bumbry hailed from a family deeply immersed in the realm of music. Her passion for singing bloomed after triumphing in a local radio station’s singing contest. This early success paved the way for her extensive vocal training, which opened doors to numerous scholarships and opportunities.
In 1959, Bumbry captivated audiences with her inaugural concert in London, marking the beginning of an illustrious career. Just a year later, she mesmerised the Parisian crowd with her operatic debut. From that point onward, she graced stages worldwide, leaving an indelible mark with her captivating performances.
Among her notable portrayals were the iconic roles of Salome in Strauss’ eponymous masterpiece, Lady Macbeth, and Princess Eboli in “Don Carlos.”
The world of opera mourns the loss of a true legend, Grace Bumbry. Her extraordinary talent and unwavering determination shall forever inspire future generations of performers, ensuring her legacy remains etched in the annals of musical history.