Bio

From the Kennedy Center to the hills of Italy, bass Jim Williams has established himself as a notable presence in the classical music world, his warm, resonant voice connecting with audiences across continents. His path from Oakwood University graduate to professional performer reflects the dedication required to build a career in opera.

At Oakwood University, Williams' vocal abilities earned him not just a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy, but also a place in the Grammy-nominated Aeolians. As part of this respected choral ensemble, he performed alongside celebrated artists like Kathleen Battle, Take 6, and Richard Smallwood, gaining valuable experience on both national and international stages.

Following his 2016 graduation, Williams chose the dynamic Baltimore-Washington metro area to launch his career. His Washington D.C. debut as Sarastro in Mozart's "The Magic Flute" with The IN Series marked a strong start, while his portrayal of Figaro in the company's creative "Figaro in Four Quartets" demonstrated his growing versatility.

His time with the Washington National Opera Chorus proved significant, performing at the Kennedy Center in productions of "Faust," "Tosca," and "Otello." This experience with professional opera at a high level helped shape his development as an artist.

Williams' repertoire shows his adaptability across classical genres. He's performed roles such as Sarastro and the Second Armored Man in "Die Zauberflöte," while contributing to Maryland Lyric Opera's productions of "Cavalleria Rusticana," "Thaïs," and "Turandot." In musical theater, he brought personality to roles like the Sergeant of Police in Gilbert and Sullivan's "Pirates of Penzance" and Sky Masterson in "Guys and Dolls" with Live Arts Maryland.

In Italy, Williams continued his artistic growth through the Bel Canto in Tuscany program, working with accomplished coaches and performing as a soloist with orchestra in Greve and Radda. 2023 brought his international debut in Scott Joplin's "Treemonisha," where he covered three roles in the production.

December 2023 marked an important step: his first professional solo contract with Washington National Opera. There, he covered the role of the Lion in Jeanine Tesori's "The Lion, the Unicorn, and Me," understudying for respected bass and Washington D.C. native, Solomon Howard. This led to his role as The Emperor's Bodyguard in Beethoven's "Fidelio," performing alongside renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves.

Beyond opera, Williams has built a solid reputation in oratorio and concert works. As a featured soloist in Handel's "Messiah" and various local and state performances, he's shown his capability across the classical repertoire. In 2022, he participated in meaningful outreach concerts in West Baltimore, honoring Anne Wiggins Brown, the original Bess of "Porgy and Bess."

Jim's performance schedule in late 2024 highlighted his growing presence in the classical music scene. In October, he made his professional solo debut with Washington National Opera as The Assistant Prime Minister in Francesca Zambello's new production of Beethoven's "Fidelio." That November, he performed as bass soloist in Beethoven's 9th Symphony with the NOVA-Annandale Symphony Orchestra, before taking on the role of Ned in Morgan State University's production of "Treemonisha." As the year drew to a close, he added another accomplishment to a successful season, performing as bass soloist in Handel's "Messiah" with the historic DC Shiloh Baptist Church and orchestra, part of a cherished holiday tradition.