Person Open DS/UK/18724 Williams; Camilla Ella (1919-2012); American operatic soprano Williams Camilla Ella 1919-2012 American operatic soprano Female (cisgender)

Camilla Ella Williams (18 October 1919 – 29 January 2012) was an American operatic soprano who performed nationally and internationally. After studying with renowned teachers in New York City, she was the first African American to receive a regular contract with a major American opera company, the New York City Opera. She had earlier won honors in vocal competitions and the Marian Anderson Fellowship in 1943-44. In 1954 she became the first African American to sing a major role with the Vienna State Opera. She later also performed as a soloist with numerous European orchestras. As a concert artist, she toured throughout the United States as well as Asia, Australia and New Zealand. In 1977, she was the first African American appointed as Professor of Voice at Indiana University, where she taught until 1997. International Standard Archival Authority Record for Corporate Bodies, Persons and Families - ISAAR(CPF) 2nd edition - ICA 2004 ISBN 2-9521932-2-3 National Council on Archives, Rules for the Construction of Personal, Place and Corporate Names, 1997 Yes RAHdroberts 7/2/2014 RAHAKirkbride 11/29/2022 10ceb4df-4b36-4ef3-8fb7-6053412a4791