conductor John DeMain and Carlisle Floyd, 1980 (2).jpg

1991 Passion of Jonathan Wade-Presentation.jpg

1981 Wilie Stark-Rehearsal-16_edit_BW.jpg

Carlisle Floyd with Robert Penn Warren, author of All the Kings Men, on which Floyd's Willie Stark was based_edit_BW.jpg

George_W._and_Laura_Bush_present_the_National_Medal_of_Arts_award_to_Carlisle_Floyd.jpg

CARLISLE FLOYD: THE FATHER OF AMERICAN OPERA
A celebration of his life, his music, and his centennial year.

Floyd redefined 20th century opera with works like Susannah and Of Mice and Men,
and continued into the 21st century with works like Prince of Players. With more than 200 international productions, Susannah remains one of the most performed and beloved American operas. More than 25 opera companies and universities are planning Floyd productions in the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons.

This multi-year celebration features partnerships with Houston Grand Opera, Boosey & Hawkes, the University of Houston, Florida State University, and the South Caroliniana Library. It will bring together musicians, scholars, opera companies, and other organizations to explore and appreciate Floyd’s oeuvre, including his operas that reflect the American experience through themes of morality and faith, and the complexities of human relationships, as well as his choral and orchestral works.

Photo Credits

Centennial
Initiatives.

Through our community and learning initiatives, the Carlisle Floyd Centennial aims to engage individuals of all ages and backgrounds in the beauty and depth of Floyd’s operatic storytelling. From live-streamed workshops to in-school curricula for students these programs will provide opportunities for people everywhere to immerse themselves in the world of Carlisle Floyd's music. Read more
The Carlisle Floyd Centennial seeks to bring awareness of the great composer’s life and works to the broader public. We are dedicated to preserving and promoting his remarkable legacy, ensuring his impact on American opera is recognized and celebrated leading up to the anniversary year and beyond.
In addition to over 25 opera productions, a concert of Floyd’s works featuring international talent in a world-renowned venue will take place in June 2026.