Charlottesville Opera has announced mezzo-soprano Kara Morgan and baritone Robbie Raso as the inaugural recipients of the Joanne Blakemore Rising Artist Award, a new annual honor recognizing emerging artists from the company’s Ader Emerging Artist Program.

The announcement was made on what would have been Joanne Blakemore’s birthday.

Blakemore, who passed away in 2025, served on the Charlottesville Opera Board of Directors for five years, holding the role of Development Chair, co-chairing the Opera Gala five times, and having been designated as the board’s incoming Vice-President for 2026. She and her husband Haywood were also known for hosting artist gatherings at their home and personally sponsoring artists on an annual basis.

The award was established in January 2026 with a lead gift from the Blakemore family and contributions from donors and friends of Joanne’s from around the world. Morgan and Raso will each receive a $5,000 cash award and will return to Charlottesville Opera to perform together at the 2027 Joanne Blakemore Rising Artist Concert.

“This award allows us to continue Joanne’s legacy of supporting artists while also acknowledging the meaningful impact artists have on the communities in which they perform,” said General Director Dr. Leanne Pettit Clement, per an official press release.

The award will be presented annually. Charlottesville Opera, formerly known as Ash Lawn Opera, celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2027.