J’Nai Bridges, Donnie Ray Albert, Michael Sumuel Among Headliners of Houston Grand Opera’s ‘Giving Voice’
By David Salazar(© S. Richards Photography 2016)
Houston Grand Opera is set to present “Giving Voice” on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
The concert, the company’s seventh annual showcase of Black artists in classical music and opera, takes place at The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land, Texas, marking the first time the event is held at the venue.
Soloists performing on the concert include mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges, baritone Donnie Ray Albert, bass-baritone Michael Sumuel, and flutist Tyler Martin. Also appearing are Butler Studio artists including soprano Elizabeth Hanje, tenor Demetrious Sampson Jr., bass-baritone Sam Dhobhany, and pianist Kevin J. Miller.
Participating ensembles include The Fort Bend Church Music Ministry, Voices of Houston, the Houston Ebony Opera Guild, and the HGO Chorus. Conducting are Keith Eason, Christopher Carter, and Gregory D. McDaniel. The concert is emceed by journalist Linda Lorelle.
Founded in 2019 by tenor Lawrence Brownlee, “Giving Voice” honors Black voices in opera and classical music. The 2026 program commemorates the centennial of Black History Month and the 250th anniversary of the United States with a program of arias and songs.
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