Echoes of Excellence

November 08. 2025

Upcoming Dates

November 08. 2025

Celebrating the Legacy of Chicago’s Black Voices Echoes of Excellence

Experience an intimate, one-night-only recital in Lyric’s stunning Rice Grand Foyer, showcasing world-renowned Black artists and members of the Black Leadership Arts Collective (B.L.A.C.). This powerful evening honors generations of vocal brilliance with performances from popular opera composers including Puccini, Verdi, Bellini, Massenet and Bizet, offered in tribute to legendary Black artists who have appeared on Lyric's stage, from Leontyne Price and Grace Bumbry, to Jessye Norman, Kathleen Battle, and more. The program will also feature spirituals and songs by some of America's most acclaimed Black composers. Don't miss this uplifting celebration of artistry and legacy.

This 75-minute recital will be followed by a Gala reception at Lyric to support B.L.A.C.’s scholarship and mentorship programs. See below for more information and for the exciting lineup of artists for this event!


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See below for details.

  • Running Time: 75 minutes with no intermission
  • Location: Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Grand Foyer at Lyric Opera House
  • In collaboration with: Black Leadership Arts Collective

Hosted by Black Leadership Arts Collective

Echoes of Excellence Gala Post-Concert Reception

Echoes of Excellence Gala Post-Concert Reception

The Black Leadership Arts Collective (B.L.A.C.) is hosting an exciting post-concert fundraising Gala reception at Lyric Opera of Chicago following the Echoes of Excellence recital. Join B.L.A.C. artists and supporters on the beautiful mezzanine level of the Lyric Opera House for a chance to mix and mingle with the recital artists and fellow music lovers in the afterglow of the evening’s performance. You’ll enjoy an open bar, an array of delicious passed hors d'oeuvres, and a dessert and coffee bar, all while learning more about and providing support for B.L.A.C.’s scholarship and mentorship programs. It’s the perfect end to an evening of exquisite artistry! Tickets for the Gala reception are purchased separately from your recital ticket/s and are $100, inclusive of all fees, with a $60 tax-deductible portion, which will be acknowledged through receipt from B.L.A.C. 

B.L.A.C. is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting and empowering Black vocal artists through leadership, mentorship, education, and providing scholarship and performance opportunities. To learn more, visit blackleadershipartscollective.org.

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Please note: Contact information for those who purchase the Echoes of Excellence recital and/or Gala event will be shared with Black Leadership Arts Collective as a presenting partner. Lyric Opera of Chicago is acting as an agent for the Black Leadership Arts Collective in selling the post-event Gala.

Artists