opera

Philadelphia's Marian Anderson (1897-1993) remains one of the best-known and most respected classical singers in American history. The determination, class and serenity with which the mightily gifted contralto overcame the overwhelming odds that racist opposition to African-American musicians placed in her path continue to inspire younger generations—as do her impressive recordings, from Schubert and Sibelius to spirituals. Just 50 years ago Anderson's emotional debut in Verdi's Un ballo in maschera opened the portals of the Metropolitan Opera to artists of all colors; earlier this fall an impassioned Lincoln Center gala featuring Leontyne Price, Martina Arroyo, Grace Bumbry, Reri Grist, Denyce Graves and others who profited from her example and wise counsel honored her legacy.

Astral Emerging Artists, in partnership with the Marian Anderson Award and the Academy of Vocal Arts, presents a yearly competition in Anderson's memory for young singers stemming from or residing in the Philadelphia area. The winners of this fourth year of the competition present a free concert of songs and arias this Friday, accompanied by pianist Laura Ward. Curtis Institute supplies two of the laureates, mellow-voiced Turkish mezzo Ezgi Kutlu (pictured) and exuberant baritone Jonathan Beyer. Another baritone-- Christopher Clayton, a New Jersey resident trained at Manhattan School of Music-- completes the winners' circle. It's a great chance to sample some splendid music—and potential future stars—for free; tickets are needed, however.

Marian Anderson Awards Winner's Prize Recital, Fri., Dec. 2, 8 p.m., free but ticketed, Academy of Vocal Arts, 1920 Spruce St., 215-735-6999.