Great article. Opera has changed so much - not just in the composition of the audience that attends, but also those that perform it. Any number of African American, African, and many other ethnicities, are now a rich part of the fabric of professional opera. Of course, opera always needs to expand its audeince base, but the myth of it being only expensive is just that - a myth. In Milwaukee, where I run the Florentine Opera, our top ticket price is much less than the top ticket to a professional sporting event, or pop music concert. This is in no way a self satisfied post with where we have come in the opera world, but we are certainly trying. There are other pioneers in the opera world - sadly, one - Mattwilda Dobbs, just passed away. A lot of her professional career was in Europe in the 50s and 60s, because of limited opportunities here. There is no doubt, however, that Leontyne Price, is the beacon - a hero to all opera fans of all races.