Editing Marian Anderson (section)

== Metropolitan Opera ==

Anderson became the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera on January 7, 1955, singing the role of Ulrica in Verdi's "Un ballo in maschera." Though she was 57 and past her vocal prime, the historic significance of breaking the Met's color barrier overshadowed any artistic limitations. The ovation she received demonstrated the audience's recognition that they were witnessing history. The breakthrough, though late in Anderson's career, opened doors for subsequent African American opera singers including Leontyne Price and Jessye Norman.<ref name="anderson"/>

Anderson continued performing until her farewell concert at Carnegie Hall in 1965, concluding a career that had taken her from South Philadelphia churches to the world's greatest stages. She received numerous honors including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Congressional Gold Medal, and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Her autobiography "My Lord, What a Morning" recounts her journey with the grace and dignity that characterized her public presence throughout her life.<ref name="keiler"/>