Baritone

Charismatic baritone Brian Major continues to be praised by critics for his “velvety voice” and “commanding stage presence.” Quickly gaining renowned for his proficiency in the iconic dramatic repertoire, Opera News praised his Escamillo as “embracing the love of the spotlight” and “never losing the strength of the vocal line.” Mr. Major’s discography credits includes newly released Wise Blood an operatic setting of Flannery O'Connor's iconic novel about a crisis of faith, patriotism, and painful transformation. Past seasons he debuted with Opera Grand Rapids, Opera Columbus, Toledo Opera, Opera Carolina, and Madison opera to name a few. During the 2020-2021 season Major will make his Teatro Municipal de São Paulo, Chautauqua Orchestra, Opera on the James, and Maryland Lyric Opera debuts.

An accomplished recitalist and concert artist, Mr. Major has performed Orff’s Carmina Burana, Handel’s Messiah, Duruflé’s Requiem, Vaughan-Williams’ Five Mystical Songs, Fauré’s Requiem, Mozart Requiem, and Mendelssohn’s Elijah. Mr. Major has won numerous awards and honors on the competition circuit, including 2nd Prize Harold Haugh Opera Vocal Competition, 1st prize Opera Ebony Vocal Competition, 3rd prize Annapolis Opera Vocal Competition, 2nd prize Opera at San Nicola Vocal Competition, 1st prize Harlem Opera Theater Vocal Competition, 1st prize Atlanta Music Club Vocal Competition, and Encouragement Prize Palm Beach Atlantic Vocal Competition. Mr. Major holds degrees from Morehouse College, Boston University, and Michigan State University.