Edward Matthews (baritone) facts for kids

Edward Matthews (born in 1904 or 1905 – died February 20, 1954) was a groundbreaking African-American opera singer. He was known for his deep voice, called a baritone. Matthews helped open doors for other Black performers in opera.

Edward Matthews: A Voice for the Ages

Edward Matthews was born in Ossining, New York. He became a very important figure in American opera.

Early Career and First Big Roles

In 1934, Matthews got a big break. He played a new character named Ignatius in an opera called Four Saints in Three Acts. This opera was written by Virgil Thomson. Matthews was so good that he played the role again in a 1952 show. This was his final performance on Broadway.

Becoming Jake in Porgy and Bess

Matthews became most famous in 1935. He played Jake the fisherman in the very first show of George Gershwin's opera, Porgy and Bess. In this role, he was the first to sing the well-known song "A Woman Is a Sometime Thing."

He loved playing Jake so much that he did it again in the 1942 revival of the opera. He also recorded the role for a special three-record album set in 1951. This album was the most complete recording of Porgy and Bess made up to that time. It helped many people hear his amazing voice.

A Sad Farewell

Sadly, Edward Matthews passed away on February 20, 1954. He was 49 years old and died in a car accident near Woodbridge, Virginia. His powerful voice and pioneering work left a lasting mark on opera.