Carolyn Sebron

Carolyn Sebron

Carolyn Sebron is originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. She began her vocal studies in the Preparatory Division of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Entering the University on a Corbett Scholarship she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in voice, and holds her Master of Music degree from The Juilliard School both in voice. A Fulbright Scholar, Ms. Sebron is a member of NATS and AGMA

Talk Title: Opera Ebony 

Founded in 1973 thorough the vision of four musical colleagues – singer Benjamin Mathews, pianist Wayne Sanders, conductor Margaret Harris and Catholic nun Sister Mary Elise – Opera Ebony has served as an artistic platform to promote opera, vocal artists and by their work to challenge the misconception that opera has no place for the African American and is not relevant to social and political struggle.

This presentation will give a brief overview of Blacks in opera then take a specific look at Opera Ebony and its historical significance. There will be a review of the company’s challenges, triumphs and the artistic collaborations with singers, international conductors and producers, stage directors, composers of color and their commissioned works. Through photographs, video media as well as recordings, we will hear and see examples from the company’s body of work. We will discuss the importance of commissioned operas, examine significant productions and events, note important alumni and finally conclude with a discussion of where Opera Ebony is today, as well as the barriers the company must overcome to be relevant, vital and robust in today’s society. A Q & A session will follow the presentation.

WEB LINK: http://www.carolynsebron.com/