On this date in 1924, Roland Hayes, a pioneering African American tenor, was named a soloist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Born in 1887 in a cabin in Georgia, Hayes overcame racial barriers to become one of the first internationally acclaimed Black classical singers.
Before this achievement, he was awarded the Spingarn Medal by the NAACP for his exceptional interpretation of Negro spirituals and classical music, helping to elevate the recognition of African American folk traditions in the classical music world. His career paved the way for future Black artists in classical music, demonstrating resilience, talent, and dedication to his craft.
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