The Savannah VOICE Festival is teaming up with the Savannah Music Festival to host “American Opera Icon,” an event marking the 60th anniversary of Sherrill Milnes’ debut at the Metropolitan Opera.

Renowned American baritone Sherrill Milnes will recount tales of his rise to global fame and his journey as the most recorded U.S. opera singer of his era. The night will feature live performances by his fellow artists and protégés, complemented by exclusive video segments that offer a glimpse into the remarkable career of this opera legend.

Milnes will take the stage as host, joined by local TV star Patty Turner, who will serve as the emcee. The lineup of performers includes baritone Javier Arrey, mezzo-soprano Jessica Ann Best, tenor Peter Lake, soprano Amy Shoremount-Obra, and pianist Jonathan Murphy. The event is under the direction of Maria Zouves.

“We’re ecstatic to collaborate once more with the Savannah VOICE Festival this season to pay tribute to Sherrill Milnes’ incredible career,” stated Gene Dobbs Bradford, Executive Director of the Savannah Music Festival, in a press statement. “This partnership not only celebrates Milnes’ enduring impact but also highlights emerging talents in opera and underscores music’s ability to bridge cultures, languages, and generations.”

The “American Opera Icon” event is scheduled for April 3, 2025, at 6 p.m. at District Live.

Following the main performances, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a special Q&A session with Sherrill Milnes, where he will reflect on his decades-long career and share insights into the evolving world of opera. This interactive segment promises to deepen the audience’s appreciation of his contributions to the art form.

The evening will conclude with a reception, allowing guests to mingle with the featured artists and celebrate the legacy of Milnes in a more intimate setting. The Savannah VOICE Festival and Savannah Music Festival aim to make this a memorable occasion that not only honors a towering figure in American opera but also inspires the next generation of performers and music lovers.

Tickets for “American Opera Icon” are available through the Savannah Music Festival’s website, with organizers encouraging early reservations due to anticipated high demand. The event underscores both festivals’ commitment to fostering artistic excellence and bringing world-class musical experiences to the Savannah community on April 3, 2025, at District Live.