Virginia Beach native and acclaimed opera singer Will Liverman has secured another Grammy nomination, marking his fifth in recent years. His nomination, announced this month, is in the Best Classical Compendium category for his album titled “The Dunbar/Moore Sessions Volume II.” Liverman previously won a Grammy in 2023 for Best Opera Recording as the lead in “Fire Shut Up in My Bones.”
His latest album showcases the poetry of Paul Laurence Dunbar and Alice Dunbar-Moore, two prominent figures from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The music on the record blends genres, incorporating influences from jazz, gospel, classical, and musical theater. “I just took it upon myself to seek out my favorite poems and seek out my favorite collaborators,” Liverman explained. “I wrote these songs just being inspired by these poets, and also to find out who I am, myself, as a writer.”
From Virginia Beach to International Acclaim
Liverman’s journey began in the Hampton Roads area, where he grew up singing in local choirs at New Hope Church of God in Christ in Norfolk and New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ in Virginia Beach. He attended Cox High School and the Governor’s School for the Arts, nurturing his passion for music from an early age.
He later pursued a master’s degree in music from Juilliard and starred in various regional productions. In 2020, he achieved a significant career milestone by auditioning successfully for the title role in Terence Blanchard’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones.” This opera, based on the memoir of New York Times columnist Charles Blow, marked a pivotal moment as it was the first work by a Black composer performed at the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
The Grammy Awards ceremony is scheduled for February 1, 2024, a highly anticipated event in the music industry. Liverman’s latest album features collaborations with notable artists, including Isabel Leonard, a three-time Grammy winner, and Erin Morley, who took home the 2022 Grammy Award for Best Choral Performance. Broadway star Mykal Kilgore also lends his voice to this impressive project.
Liverman’s achievements not only highlight his individual talent but also showcase the rich musical heritage of Virginia Beach. With a remarkable blend of artistry and cultural significance, Liverman continues to inspire both audiences and aspiring musicians alike. As he gears up for the Grammy Awards, his journey serves as a testament to dedication and the power of artistic expression.
