March 16 marks birth anniversary of renowned operatic soprano La Julia Rhea

La Julia Rhea was born on March 16, 1898, in Louisville, Kentucky. She began singing publicly as a child in her church choir. In 1925, she relocated to Chicago to attend the Chicago Musical College and became a member of the R. Nathaniel Dett Club of Music and Allied Arts. Rhea made her professional debut at Kimball Hall in 1929 and spent over two decades performing across the United States while studying operatic roles. In 1934, she broke barriers as the first black artist to audition at the Metropolitan Opera. The following year, she toured with the Major Bowes Amateur Hour and, in 1937, made history again by becoming the first black performer to star in the title role of a major opera company’s production of *Aida* in Chicago. Rhea also appeared with the National Negro Opera Company and took part in musical events supporting World War II efforts. Later in life, she settled in Blue Island, Illinois, where she offered private music lessons and hosted annual gatherings for musicians. She continued to perform occasionally on the air, staying connected to music and mentoring aspiring opera singers.