calsfoundation@cals.org
December 23, 2012
In 1955, Lee County native Robert McFerrin Sr. became the first black male to appear in an opera at the Metropolitan Opera house in New York City. However, his career at the Met was brief, being limited to ten performances in three seasons during three years. Although he sang in European opera houses and performed concerts extensively, he failed to attain major prominence. He is best remembered as the father of singer and conductor Bobby McFerrin, with whom he sometimes performed.