Edward Virgil Abner facts for kids
Edward Virgil Abner (born in 1925, died in 1984) was an American singer who was very active in the 1950s and 1960s. He was known for his powerful voice and his work in both gospel music and opera.
Early Musical Training
Edward Virgil Abner loved music from a young age. He studied at the Chicago Musical College, a famous music school. In 1950, his talent was recognized when he won a special scholarship from the Chicago Music Association. This helped him continue his musical journey.
Leading Music Groups
Virgil Abner was a natural leader in music.
- In 1949, he directed a large 40-person gospel choir. They performed many spiritual songs on Chicago's WMOR radio station.
- In 1951, he formed a singing group called the Knights of Music. This group was very versatile! They sang everything from classical music by composers like Bach and Handel to popular theatre songs by Rodgers and Hammerstein. They also performed spiritual music and even pop songs.
- A young and talented musician named Ramsey Lewis sometimes played the piano for the Knights of Music as a guest.
- One important member of the Knights of Music was Alton Abraham. He later became a close friend and business manager for the famous jazz musician Sun Ra.
- In 1953, Abner performed at a big meeting for the National Association of Negro Musicians. This event was led by the famous blues composer W. C. Handy.
A Star in Opera
Even though he worked with many different types of music, Virgil Abner became most famous for his work in opera during the 1950s and 1960s.
- In 1953, he became the director of the Chicago Opera Group, which meant he was in charge of their opera productions.
- He sang lead roles in famous operas, like Aida with the St. Louis Opera Company.
- In 1956, he performed in two other well-known operas with the Lyric Opera of Chicago. He played the messenger in Il trovatore and Giuseppi in La traviata.
- In 1960, Abner performed as a solo singer with the North Side Symphony Orchestra of Chicago.
- In 1962, he was the main singer for Ludwig van Beethoven's important classical work, Missa solemnis, at Milton College.
Later Life
Edward Virgil Abner passed away in 1984 when he was 59 years old. He left behind a legacy as a talented singer and director who explored many different styles of music.
