KENNESAW, Ga. | Feb 27, 2015

World-renowned opera performer Sherrill Milnes visited Kennesaw State University on Friday, February 27, 2015 for a public lecture presentation and a master class with KSU School of Music vocal students. This exciting opportunity was possible due to the School of Music’s ongoing partnership with The Atlanta Opera, a goal of which is to bring world-class talent to campus to interact with current music students in educational and performance settings.

In his public lecture presentation, Milnes shared insights into his life and extensive career. Following the lecture presentation was be a master class for students. Milnes instructed vocal students on a piece of prepared repertoire to improve technique, expression, and other aspects of operatic performance. Milnes’s appearance is part of The Atlanta Opera’s celebration of 35 years of live performances. The Atlanta Opera opened its inaugural season at the Fox Theatre on March 14, 1980 with the first of two performances of The Seagull, by Thomas Pasatieri and based on Anton Chekhov’s 1896 play of the same name. Milnes closed the season with a recital that included some of his most famous work.

Widely regarded as being the foremost operatic baritone of his generation, Milnes is the most recorded American opera singer of his time. He boasts a repertoire of over 70 operas with a distinct performance style marked by his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and rugged handsomeness. He has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages including performances with the major American and European orchestras and has also performed for the past six U.S. presidents.

In addition to his vast on-stage experience, Milnes has also devoted extensive time to teaching and working with young singers. His academic experience includes 14 years on the Yale School of Music faculty and frequent master classes. He founded the Sherrill Milnes VOICExperience, a non-profit foundation designed to train and mentor young singers through concerts, fully staged operas, educational presentations, and community outreach.

About The Atlanta Opera: Founded in 1979, The Atlanta Opera is one of the finest regional opera companies in the nation. By producing live, mainstage performances of the highest quality and impactful community engagement experiences, The Atlanta Opera enriches lives through the power of opera. The Opera strives to attract the finest international, national, and regional singers, conductors, stage directors, and designers. Each season, The Atlanta Opera presents three productions at the Cobb Energy Centre, drawing audiences from the entire metropolitan Atlanta area as well as from the Southeast region.