Sherrill Milnes

Savannah

Sherrill Milnes (Savannah) is an acclaimed operatic baritone and Grammy Award-winning artist who is co-founder of the Savannah VOICE Festival (SVF). Milnes’ personal achievement includes receiving three Grammys, as well as the National Medal of the Arts, and he has starred in numerous performances at the Metropolitan Opera. While he has enjoyed significant success in his career, Milnes has also worked tirelessly to give back to his community through support of the vocal arts. The Savannah VOICE Festival is a widely celebrated event that brings together world-class artists – as well as emerging talent—to perform annually in Savannah, enriching the cultural landscape and fostering community engagement with the arts. Through Milnes’ leadership, the Festival promotes the beauty of voice and celebrates vocal artistry in all varieties – from opera to musical theatre to popular song. In addition to organizing the Savannah VOICE Festival, Milnes supports arts education in the community, offering workshops for students and young professionals. Through his leadership, SVF’s educational outreach programs extend to schools and community groups, reaching new audiences. Milnes’ talent and his devotion to the arts contribute to Savannah’s importance as a hub for the vocal arts.

Q&A with the Honoree

Q: What is some advice you have for someone who is aspiring to make an impact in their community?

A: “The best way to impact any community is to share your talents, whatever they may be, with people, places, and projects. Finding ways to be relevant and leave the spaces you inhabit better off means that you have made a difference. Get involved and spend time nurturing your community. It creates a sense of place not just for you, but for others.”