In honor of Black History Month, Voices of Ascension has been celebrating BIPOC vocalists and works by BIPOC composers we've performed in the past. This week, we celebrate baritone Justin Austin, who sang with us on our "Baroque Favorites" concert in April 2021.

Justin has been praised by the Wall Street Journal for his "mellifluous baritone" and has been described by Opera News as "a gentle actor and elegant musician," having performed roles at the Metropolitan Opera (Brett Dean's Hamlet, Jake Haggie's Dead Man Walking, Gershwin's Porgy and Bess), Washington National Opera (Damien Geter & Lila Palmer's American Apollo), Bard SummerScape (Chausson's Le roi Arthus), and Lincoln Center Theater (Lynn Nottage and Ricky Ian Gordon's Intimate Apparel). Justin has also performed recitals at the Park Avenue Armory, New York Festival of Song, LA Opera, Opera Saratoga, Hamburg International Music Festival, and Lakes Area Music Festival. Justin also serves his community and works with organizations such as MEND (Meeting Emergency Needs with Dignity) QSAC (Quality Services for the Autism Community), Holt International, and St. Mary's Children's Hospital to construct and perform benefit concerts.

Listen to Justin perform Handel's "Ombra Mai Fu" with Artistic Director Dennis Keene accompanying on organ below. You can learn more about Justin and his work at justinaustin.org.

HANDEL “Ombra Mai Fu” from Xerxes, HMV 40

Justin Austin, baritone
Dennis Keene, organ

Streamed on Voices of Ascension's "Baroque Favorites" livestream on April 14, 2021.

The singers in this performance are represented by the American Guild of Musical Artists, AFL-CIO.