Ronald Spriggs
How did you get involved in music? What was your inspiration?
My aunt was my introduction to music. I was sitting in the pews and the choir was singing, I started singing along and my aunt turned around and said you can sing. She said I should be up with them singing and that’s how I was introduced to music. Next thing I knew I was in lessons and joined the choir.
Who has been an African American musical influence in your life?
My biggest influence came from Billy Eckstine. His voice just spoke to me and touch my soul really. When I heard “I Apologize” there was this flow and connection with the music and lyrics that spoke beyond music to my ears, but good for my soul. Lena Horne is my favorite singer. I once heard her say in an interview “I might not be the best singer but my acting makes it strong” and it inspired me so. I think she was absolutely talented all around. Someone who could, do it all. A triple threat.
What has your experience been with the Indianapolis Opera?
Working with the Indianapolis opera was an amazing opportunity that opened new doors for me. It was something beyond musical theatre that gave me a chance to be featured and work with the Indianapolis opera.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians and singers of color?
Look at all genres of music. Looking beyond something that we may hear in church or even on the radio will open your mind and eyes to the power and beauty of music. Classical music is the root of it all. It’s where it all began and it’s just such a fascinating thing to see the spectrum and journey that music has made.
How did you get involved in music? What was your inspiration?
My aunt was my introduction to music. I was sitting in the pews and the choir was singing, I started singing along and my aunt turned around and said you can sing. She said I should be up with them singing and that’s how I was introduced to music. Next thing I knew I was in lessons and joined the choir.
Who has been an African American musical influence in your life?
My biggest influence came from Billy Eckstine. His voice just spoke to me and touch my soul really. When I heard “I Apologize” there was this flow and connection with the music and lyrics that spoke beyond music to my ears, but good for my soul. Lena Horne is my favorite singer. I once heard her say in an interview “I might not be the best singer but my acting makes it strong” and it inspired me so. I think she was absolutely talented all around. Someone who could, do it all. A triple threat.
What has your experience been with the Indianapolis Opera?
Working with the Indianapolis opera was an amazing opportunity that opened new doors for me. It was something beyond musical theatre that gave me a chance to be featured and work with the Indianapolis opera.
Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians and singers of color?
Look at all genres of music. Looking beyond something that we may hear in church or even on the radio will open your mind and eyes to the power and beauty of music. Classical music is the root of it all. It’s where it all began and it’s just such a fascinating thing to see the spectrum and journey that music has made.
