The mission of this nonprofit organization is to promote equity and inclusion in American classical vocal arts through the unprecedented approach of expanding public understanding of the hidden musical figures of the past, while uplifting young artists of world-class talent from all backgrounds. It is already having a transformative impact on the future of classical vocal arts. Founded by world-renowned opera star, director, and teacher, Denyce Graves, DGF celebrates trailblazing musicians, music educators, and composers of color through community engagement programs, concerts and presentations, creation of new works of art, establishment of young artist development training and more, as well as via social and traditional media. It stands apart from every other organization currently in operation in the performing arts space with the network of the collaborations and alliances with renowned chroniclers, presenters and educators in history and culture, including The Smithsonian Institution, The Metropolitan Opera, Library of Congress, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, as well as with some of America’s elite Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Conservatories, and Schools of Music.   By working at the intersection of vocal arts, social justice, and American history, DGF is positioned to drive both localized and systemic change.

In the words of founder Denyce Graves, “DGF is rooted in the belief that now is the time to increase our nation’s commitment to its artists, both past and present—for America’s future and for the whole world. In paying homage to the achievements of so many who have gone before while serving the real needs of today’s emerging artist singers, The Denyce Graves Foundation is giving back and paying it forward at the same time.”

https://www.thedenycegravesfoundation.org