Renowned artist Plácido Domingo set to receive UCLA's prestigious Medal of Honor.
Plácido Domingo to Receive UCLA's Highest Honour
Plácido Domingo, a renowned opera singer, conductor, and arts administrator, is set to receive the UCLA Medal – the campus' highest honour – on November 12. This prestigious award recognises individuals who have achieved academic and professional acclaim, and whose work embodies the university's highest ideals.
The award ceremony and masterclass will take place at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, with Domingo sharing his wisdom and insights with aspiring musicians. The event is free and open to the public, but advance reservations are required due to limited seating.
Throughout his illustrious career, Domingo has made significant contributions to the world of opera and arts education, particularly in Los Angeles and at UCLA.
A Global Opera Legend
Domingo rose to global prominence as one of the most versatile opera singers, performing over 150 operatic roles spanning tenor and baritone parts over more than six decades. He gained worldwide fame as one of "The Three Tenors," bringing opera to mass audiences and mainstream culture in the 1990s.
Influential Arts Leader
Beyond singing, Domingo has been an influential arts leader. He served as the artistic and general director of the Los Angeles Opera, where he elevated the company’s artistic profile, brought prestigious productions to the city, and supported young talent.
Promoting Operatic Arts Education
In arts education, Domingo founded the Operalia singing competition, a global platform for discovering and nurturing emerging opera singers. At UCLA and in the Los Angeles area, Domingo contributed to artist development programs, with musicians under his tutelage or working in programs associated with the Los Angeles Opera benefiting from his coaching and leadership in young artist initiatives.
Shaping the Future of Opera
Domingo's leadership and mentorship roles have fostered a new generation of operatic talent, shaping both performance careers and classical music audiences locally and globally. His influence can be seen in the careers of numerous opera stars, such as Angel Blue, who earned a master of music degree from UCLA in 2008 and has since graced many of the great European concert halls.
Domingo's impact on the Los Angeles opera scene is undeniable, and his educational efforts have promoted operatic arts education locally and internationally, including at UCLA-affiliated programs. His receipt of the UCLA Medal is a testament to his enduring contributions to the arts and education.
Additional Context
Domingo is acclaimed not just for his singing but also for conducting more than 600 performances worldwide, enhancing his impact on opera production and music interpretation. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including the first Birgit Nilsson Prize for outstanding achievement in classical music, reflecting his stature in the field. Domingo has also received the National Presidential Medal of Freedom and 12 Grammy awards.
The UCLA Medal ceremony for Domingo will be held at 3 p.m. on November 12 in UCLA's Schoenberg Hall, followed by an 80-minute master class. This is an opportunity for the public to witness the wisdom and insights of a true legend in the world of opera and arts education.
In alignment with his influence in the arts, Plácido Domingo's upcoming attendance at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music includes a masterclass, not only showcasing his operatic prowess but also offering an opportunity for learning and development for aspiring musicians. As a lifelong advocate for education and self-development, Domingo's legacy continues to make an impact through initiatives like his Operalia competition and artist development programs, fostering the growth of both operatic talent and classical music audiences.
