Benjamin Burney
How did you get involved in music? What was your inspiration?
In grade school, I was involved in various school and community choral groups such as the Youngstown Connection, a song & dance troupe that serves as goodwill ambassadors for Youngstown & the Mahoning Valley. Their message promotes peace, love, and brotherhood. Dr. Carol Baird, director of the Youngstown Connection, was my direct inspiration to pursue music. Before meeting her, I wanted to go into the accounting field. Dr. Baird and the group pushed me to become a better musician, a better person, and aspire to be a professional opera singer.
Who has been an African American musical influence in your life?
Lawrence Brownlee, American operatic tenor, has been a personal, musical influence in my life. As a fellow Youngstown native, he has shown me that goals can never be too large. Being African-American, he has overcome the challenges of making a career in a caucasian-dominated field. He has won numerous awards, traveled the world, and most importantly, has been a beacon of hope to, not only Youngstown, but African-Americans everywhere.
What has your experience been with the Indianapolis Opera? What has been your favorite production you have participated in and why?
The Indianapolis Opera has presented itself to me as a wonderful opportunity of growth both on the stage, as well as, off the stage as a Marketing Associate for the company. It is difficult to narrow down my favorite production because each has offered immense learning opportunities and many memorable moments; however, I would say the best moments I had were working with John Schmid, Chorus Master of Indianapolis Opera, and his random, yet interesting, stories he would share in the middle of rehearsals.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians and singers of color?
For them, I would say that they must be passionate, practice everyday, and sacrifice for their craft; to go above and beyond what they think it takes. Yes, it is years of hard work and not the easiest road, but the reward and investment in the end is well worth it. "Nothing worth having comes easy." ~ Theodore Roosevelt. I have been blessed to travel around the world for my career and I, honestly, would not give it up for anything else. I have Indianapolis Opera, Lawrence Brownlee, Dr. Baird & the Youngstown Connection, my friends, and family to thank for making my large aspirations become a reality.
How did you get involved in music? What was your inspiration?
In grade school, I was involved in various school and community choral groups such as the Youngstown Connection, a song & dance troupe that serves as goodwill ambassadors for Youngstown & the Mahoning Valley. Their message promotes peace, love, and brotherhood. Dr. Carol Baird, director of the Youngstown Connection, was my direct inspiration to pursue music. Before meeting her, I wanted to go into the accounting field. Dr. Baird and the group pushed me to become a better musician, a better person, and aspire to be a professional opera singer.
Who has been an African American musical influence in your life?
Lawrence Brownlee, American operatic tenor, has been a personal, musical influence in my life. As a fellow Youngstown native, he has shown me that goals can never be too large. Being African-American, he has overcome the challenges of making a career in a caucasian-dominated field. He has won numerous awards, traveled the world, and most importantly, has been a beacon of hope to, not only Youngstown, but African-Americans everywhere.
What has your experience been with the Indianapolis Opera? What has been your favorite production you have participated in and why?
The Indianapolis Opera has presented itself to me as a wonderful opportunity of growth both on the stage, as well as, off the stage as a Marketing Associate for the company. It is difficult to narrow down my favorite production because each has offered immense learning opportunities and many memorable moments; however, I would say the best moments I had were working with John Schmid, Chorus Master of Indianapolis Opera, and his random, yet interesting, stories he would share in the middle of rehearsals.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians and singers of color?
For them, I would say that they must be passionate, practice everyday, and sacrifice for their craft; to go above and beyond what they think it takes. Yes, it is years of hard work and not the easiest road, but the reward and investment in the end is well worth it. "Nothing worth having comes easy." ~ Theodore Roosevelt. I have been blessed to travel around the world for my career and I, honestly, would not give it up for anything else. I have Indianapolis Opera, Lawrence Brownlee, Dr. Baird & the Youngstown Connection, my friends, and family to thank for making my large aspirations become a reality.
