Grace Bumbry is speaking out regarding the Bumbry Method.

The mezzo-soprano, who has promoted her masterclasses as the “Bumbry Way” took to social media and said, “Dear all, I write this message with great concern!!! It has come to my ears that there are singers who are teaching a singing method called Bumbry Method. From what I’ve heard they are crazy and wrong ideas that are far from what I would teach.”

She added, “I ask you to understand that I take my work as a teacher very seriously, contributing my knowledge after 50 years of career on the stage. I would never give a letter of recommendation if I really do not believe that person is capable of doing a good job as a teacher. I know that the future of young singers depends on good teaching and that it is a great responsibility. At the moment I have not given any letter for these purpose. Please if someone comes to you with that Bumbry Method idea, don’t believe it.”

In recent years, Bumbry has taught masterclasses virtually and has also held conversations about her experience on stage. She also recently received the Premio Rodolfo Celletti at the Festival  Valle Della d’Itra in Martina Franca, Italy.

Throughout her career, Bumbry was considered one of the leading mezzo-sopranos of her generation, as well as a major soprano earlier in her career. She was also a member of a pioneering generation of African-American opera and classical singers who paved the way for future generations of African-American opera and concert singers.