Bessie Smith Cultural Center unveils new exhibit on Roland Hayes
Chattanooga, TN (WDEF) – The Bessie Smith Cultural Center unveiled a brand new exhibit called A Tribute to Roland Hayes.
You can check it out now through Halloween.
Center officials say the exhibit gives a look into the life of Roland Hayes.
The son of a former slave was born in Gordon County, Georgia and grew up in Chattanooga.
Hayes became an internationally-know opera star.
His main claim to fame was becoming the first classical singer to incorporate black spiritual music into his repertoire.
Critics say that brought a new level of appreciation and respect to that material.
He was also the highest paid singer in the world in 1928.
BSCC officials say after Hayes studied at Fisk University, he performed at Carnegie Hall and Boston Symphony Hall.
He even performed privately for King George V of England at the height of his popularity.
You can check out the Roland Hayes Concert Hall in the fine arts complex at UTC.
Celebrating talent like that in Chattanooga definitely gets a "10" on the Amy-O-Meter.
You can check it out now through Halloween.
Center officials say the exhibit gives a look into the life of Roland Hayes.
The son of a former slave was born in Gordon County, Georgia and grew up in Chattanooga.
Hayes became an internationally-know opera star.
His main claim to fame was becoming the first classical singer to incorporate black spiritual music into his repertoire.
Critics say that brought a new level of appreciation and respect to that material.
He was also the highest paid singer in the world in 1928.
BSCC officials say after Hayes studied at Fisk University, he performed at Carnegie Hall and Boston Symphony Hall.
He even performed privately for King George V of England at the height of his popularity.
You can check out the Roland Hayes Concert Hall in the fine arts complex at UTC.
Celebrating talent like that in Chattanooga definitely gets a "10" on the Amy-O-Meter.
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