Regardless of where we all come from, music is an expression of our identity. Through music, we remember the forces that shaped us and share our stories with others.

Join Opera Theatre for a celebration of music and storytelling with this annual free concert. Our Songs features a different guest curator every year, giving artists the opportunity to honor the voices and influences most important to them. From classical music to folk songs to contemporary harmonies, this is a night where every voice has a place, and all are welcome.

This year’s concert, curated by guest artist Justin Austin, celebrates the idea of America as a melting pot with songs ranging from musical theater to Duke Ellington to Chinese folk tunes. Justin stars in the title role of this season’s The Barber of Seville and is a Drama Desk Award-nominated artist who has appeared on concert and operatic stages across the globe since the age of four. Outside of opera, Justin also enjoys performing in a wide range of genres including jazz, R&B, and musical theater. He has collaborated with multiple groups and artists such as Aretha Franklin, The Boys Choir of Harlem, Mary J. Blige, Elton John, Lauryn Hill, The Roots, 30 Seconds to Mars, Kanye West, and Wynton Marsalis.