Major Accomplishments
Leontyne Price was born in 1927 in Laurel, Mississippi. Her parents were Mr. James Anthony Price and Mrs. Kate Baker Price. She began singing around the age of 5 or 6 with formal training. Price was in the church choir for many years.
Price graduated from Oak Park High School. She then enrolled in the music education program at Wilberforce University where her success in the University's glee club led her to many solo assignments. She was encouraged to complete her studies in voice. She graduated in 1948. From there, she continued her education at Juilliard on a full tuition scholarship and began her vigorous career in opera.
Price has been in numerous operas including Porgy and Bess, Falstaff, and Four Saints in Three Acts. Leontyne Price is known for her vibrant mezzo soprano voice.
In 1958, Leontyne Price was named an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Alpha Omicron.