Fox Cities News

Hannah Jones, a 2022 graduate of Lawrence University, is experiencing a swift rise in her opera career. Since graduating, she has completed a master's program at the Manhattan School of Music and was selected for The Metropolitan Opera's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program. She recently made debuts with both The Met and Seattle Opera.

Jones reflects on her achievements with disbelief: “This all feels so unreal,” she said. Her journey began at Lawrence University, where she studied voice and participated actively in the Opera Theatre program. "Lawrence is special in that it’s an undergrad-only institution," Jones noted, emphasizing the ample stage time she received as an undergraduate.

Her participation in the Lindemann Young Artist Development Program has been particularly significant. "This is the program to be in if you are a young artist," Jones stated. The program provides resources that help young artists focus solely on developing their craft without financial burdens.

Jones also performed at Seattle Opera's Jubilee and shared her gratitude towards historical figures like the Fisk Jubilee Singers: “As an African American opera singer, I would not be here without them,” she said.

Looking ahead, Jones has several performances lined up, including a recital at The Juilliard School and potentially performing in The Met's production of Antony and Cleopatra. Despite her rapid success, Jones remains grounded: “I feel extremely blessed and very humbled to be in this place,” she expressed.

Jones credits much of her success to her formative years at Lawrence University: “I’m grateful for my time at Lawrence,” she said.