The Motor City Lyric Opera Honors Aretha Franklin While Raising Money For Its Anti-Bullying Program “Opera On Wheels”

Aretha Franklin loved opera. She became a board member of the Motor City Lyric Opera and it was one of its members who became The Queen of Soul’s vocal coach, preparing her to perform Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma”

Ann Delisi talks with Aretha Franklin’s vocal coach, Mary Callahan Lynch, about working with The Queen of Soul, seeing her perform “Nessun Dorma” at the 1998 Grammy Awards and the night Ms. Franklin performed with pianist and former Secretary of State, Condaleezza Rice. Ms. Lynch also talks about The Motor City Lyric Opera’s anti-bullying program “Opera on Wheels” and the event to raise money for continue its success titled “Puccini in a Pink Cadillac”, on May 2nd at 7pm at the Stanley Kresge and Fred Fisher Mansions. They will also honor board member Emeritus, Aretha Franklin. For information visit mclopera.org.

Author

  • Ann Delisi
    Ann Delisi hosts Essential Music, the Essential Conversations podcast series and the Essential Cooking broadcast and podcast. Born and raised in the Motor City, Ann is a broadcaster, interviewer, producer, music host, storyteller and proud Detroiter.