This symposium, presented by the Toronto Public Library in partnership with The Glenn Gould Foundation, traces the heroic struggles of pioneering artists of African origin to enter the operatic world, their fight for acceptance and recognition, their triumphs and accomplishments.

This event is part of a week of celebrations in Toronto for Jessye Norman, winner of the Twelfth Glenn Gould Prize.

SCHEDULE
11:00-11:30 am → OPENING CONCERT
With soprano Nadine Anyan, tenor Tristan Scott, baritone Korin Thomas-Smith and pianist Angela Park.

11:30-12:30 pm → BLACK VOICES IN THE OPERA
A conversation between Dr. Naomi André (University of Michigan) and Dr. Gregory Hopkins (Artistic Director of the Harlem Opera Theatre), moderated by Dr. Melanie Zeck (Centre for Black Musical Research, Columbia College).

Inspired by Naomi André's book Black Opera, this conversation on the history of Black opera will explore how artists and composers have used opera to reclaim Black people's place in history.

1:00-2:00 pm → THREE SCENES FROM BLACK OPERA THAT CHANGE MUSIC HISTORY
Gregory Hopkins will present a selection of key performances from the history of Black opera.

2:30-3:30 pm → NOT YOUR MUSIC: A CONVERSATION ON CULTURAL APPROPRIATION
Robert Harris & Naomi André discuss cultural appropriation in the opera and the performing arts, and explore recent examples.

3:45-4:00 pm → SECOND CONCERT
Presented by The Glenn Gould Foundation.

4:00-4:45 pm → 12TH GLENN GOULD PRIZE LAUREATE: JESSYE NORMAN
Eleanor Wachtel hosts a conversation with Jessye Norman about her life in Opera.

Please note: Jessye Norman will NOT be signing memorabilia at this event

A NOTE ABOUT TICKETS:
We've created TWO ticket types to help us manage attendees for this day of events.

- If you want to attend any of the symposium events AND the Jessye Norman talk, please select BOTH ticket types.

- If you are planning to ONLY attend the Jessye Norman talk at 4pm, please only select tickets for that.

Get tickets here: blackopera.eventbrite.com

Please note that all tickets are general admission, and seating is on a first come, first served basis.

This event is part of our Black History Month programming. For the full lineup, see: tpl.ca/blackhistory