Mary Costa
Pellissippi State Community College continues its 2011-2012 free concert series with a special tribute presentation of the Oct. 4 Faculty Recital Showcase.
Performers will honor Mary Costa, world-renowned opera singer, Disney legend and friend of the college. They also will recognize Allen G. Edwards, a leader, visionary, community college advocate and former president of Pellissippi State.
Costa, a native Knoxvillian, is best known for her role as the voice of Princess Aurora in the Walt Disney film “Sleeping Beauty,” but her voice, grace and beauty also are legendary in the world of opera.
The famous diva performed in 44 operatic roles on the American and European stage. She played the title role in Jules Massenet’s “Manon” at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. She sang the soprano lead of Violetta Valéry in Guiseppe Verdi’s “La Traviata” at the Royal Opera House in London.
These days, she is home in East Tennessee, volunteering her time visiting schools and colleges to inspire youth, especially those who are studying music.
Allen G. Edwards
Edwards retired earlier this year as the college’s president. During his tenure, he made the Music program one of his special areas of focus. He now serves as president emeritus of Pellissippi State.
“We are excited to honor Mary Costa and Allen Edwards,” said Bill Brewer, Pellissippi State’s Music program coordinator. “Both have made a tremendous impact on the lives of students.
“Mary puts so much of her energy into supporting young people and encouraging them in music, and Allen Edwards was a strong supporter of the arts in his role as Pellissippi State’s president. Together, they have touched many people through their love of music and their support of music education. The ‘why’ behind our honoring them is a big one.”
During the first portion of the concert, the audience will be treated to not only musical selections performed by Pellissippi State faculty but also a video highlighting Costa’s career. The second segment features selections celebrating the musical favorites of Edwards. Both honorees will be present and will speak at the event.
The concert is free, but donations will be accepted at the door for the Pellissippi State Foundation on behalf of the Music Scholarship fund. During the 2010-11 academic year, the Foundation awarded more than 100 music-related scholarships to more than 80 Pellissippi State students.
The special evening is made possible by Sandra and Monroe Trout. It takes place at 7 p.m. in the Clayton Performing Arts Center on the Pellissippi Campus, 10915 Hardin Valley Road. A reception in the College Center, on the first floor of the Goins Building, follows the concert. Plenty of free parking is available.
For additional information, call (865) 694-6400.
To request accommodations for a disability, contact the executive director of Human Resources and Affirmative Action at (865) 694-6607 or humanresources@pstcc.edu.