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Pioneering opera singer Grace Bumbry, first Black woman to perform at Bayreuth Festival, dead at 86

  • Legendary mezzo-soprano Grace Bumbry, barrier-breaking opera singer, died at 86.
  • Bumbry was the first Black woman to perform at Germany's prestigious Bayreuth Festival in 1961.
  • Bumbry pursued a remarkable range of roles over a 40-year career at the world's top opera houses.
  • Bumbry remained active as a teacher and established a musical heritage ensemble after retiring from opera in 1997.
  • Bumbry received honors including Kennedy Center Honors for her groundbreaking, trailblazing career.
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