Voices of Light

Dawn Upshaw, the acclaimed American soprano, is renowned for her exquisite voice and her profound commitment to the communicative power of music. With a repertoire that spans from Baroque masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, Upshaw has captivated audiences worldwide. Her collaborations with esteemed composers like Henri Dutilleux, Osvaldo Golijov, and John Adams have resulted in numerous premieres, showcasing her adventurous spirit and dedication to new music. A five-time GRAMMY Award winner and the first vocalist to receive a MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellowship, Upshaw's career is marked by her meticulous attention to text and language, making her performances deeply resonant and emotionally engaging. Beyond her stage presence, Upshaw is also a dedicated educator, having founded and directed the Graduate Vocal Arts Program at Bard College and currently leading the Vocal Arts Program at the Tanglewood Music Center. Her influence extends far beyond the concert hall, inspiring both fellow musicians and aspiring artists alike.