Milnes, Sherrill

Milnes << mihlnz >>, Sherrill (1935-…), is an American operatic baritone known for his rich voice and great range. Milnes specializes in Italian operas, particularly those by Giuseppe Verdi. He has also appeared in concerts with major American symphony orchestras.

Milnes was born on Jan. 10, 1935, in Hinsdale, Illinois. He studied voice at Drake University. He first sang a major role in 1960 with Boris Goldovsky’s New England Opera Company and toured with the company from 1960 to 1965. Milnes has appeared regularly at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City since his debut in 1965 as Valentin in Charles Gounod’s Faust. He has also sung with other companies throughout the world. Milnes wrote an autobiography, American Aria (1998).