Grammy-winning vocalist visits Darlington

Grammy-winning opera singer Mela Dailey visited Darlington on Friday to coach Concert Choir students and perform live for the school community in Thatcher Hall’s Ledbetter Commons. 

The evening before her visit, the soprano sang with the Chattanooga (Tenn.) Symphony Orchestra.

“Mela is a vivacious lady, and brings so much warmth to her teaching and performing,” said Choral Director Rebecca Duren, a friend of Dailey’s since performing together in high school. “We take advantage of our proximity to bigger cities to bring [these performers] and other fine arts experiences to our students."

Dailey worked closely with the Concert Choir to help them with vocal technique, and coached specifically on “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” before singing it with the group.

“I’m really impressed with Darlington, and in particular the Fine Arts division," said Dailey. "[The kids] were so well-prepared and attentive, and excited to learn, which has to be a community-wide value that’s been instilled. That will carry them through the rest of their lives, no matter what they do.”

In front of students and faculty, Dailey performed renditions of tunes like Etta James’ “At Last” and opera aria “Despuis le jour,” while also interjecting personal anecdotes  and taking questions from the crowd.

“To see someone living out their passion inspires others to do the same—it all depends on that passion, your persistence and drive,” added Dailey. "It makes things that seemed impossible to these kids now feel possible." 

“You never know—there’s that one kid in the sea of 300 that it will touch, and that lasts their whole life," said Duren.

Mela Dailey has experience and acclaim performing country, gospel, musical theatre, pop, vocal jazz, and many other genres. She has sung all across Europe and the United States.

Dailey debuted in the professional arena in 2003 when she took the Carnegie Hall stage with vocal ensemble Conspirare Company of Voices. Earlier this year, the group and conductor Craig Hella Johnson took home the Grammy for Best Choral Performance for the album The Sacred Spirit of Russia.

This December, the songstress will be featured in the soundtrack to the upcoming major motion picture Heaven Sent.

Dailey resides in Austin, Texas, where she serves as the artistic director of Life in the City United Methodist Church.

Click here for more information about Mela Dailey.


Click here to view additional photos from Dailey's visit to Darlington.