Presentation: Black Voices in American Opera

With Cole Thomason-Redus of the San Francisco Opera
Sunday, 6/21/2026
2:00 - 3:30
Richmond Meeting Room
Richmond/Senator Milton Marks

351 9th Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94118
United States

415-355-5600

Learn about some of the leading Black pioneers of opera in this 90-minute survey presentation. Cole Thomason-Redus of the San Francisco Opera explores the careers and recordings of black musical greats such as H.T. Burleigh and Marian Anderson, midcentury superstars such as Leontyne Price, and modern-day masters of the American opera stage. In addition to celebrating these iconic voices, we will discuss the institutional and social barriers that have often existed within the art form, and the corrective and equity-based efforts being taken today as San Francisco Opera paves the way for a new century of opera in America. This is the first in a series of SF Opera presentations this summer at Richmond Branch. On Sunday, July 19 at 2 pm, we will host the program Contemporary Black Voices in American Opera at 2 pm. On Sunday, August 9, we will host a special Fall Season Preview of the Opera's upcoming season, also beginning at 2 pm.

 

Dance & Music

Enjoy performances, talks and workshops that celebrate movement and the musical arts.

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

This program will be conducted in English unless otherwise noted.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

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The views and opinions expressed in programs presented by groups unaffiliated with SFPL do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SFPL or the City.