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Floyd Centennial: FSU Alum Conducts at Carnegie Hall
30 May
Summary
- Centennial concert honors Carlisle Floyd at Carnegie Hall.
- Alum Christopher James Ray leads the tribute performance.
- FSU College of Music choirs feature prominently in the event.
A special concert at Carnegie Hall on June 20, 2026, will honor the centennial of renowned American opera composer Carlisle Floyd. Christopher James Ray, an alumnus of Florida State University's College of Music and a former protégé of Floyd, is set to conduct the celebratory event. The FSU College of Music choirs will participate, presenting a program featuring Floyd's most celebrated works and lesser-known pieces.
Ray's deep connection with Floyd, forged during his time at FSU and as Floyd's musical assistant for nearly five years, makes this tribute particularly meaningful. The concert is a focal point for national centennial activities recognizing Floyd's profound impact on American opera and his mentorship of countless artists and institutions.
Floyd, who taught at FSU for many years and premiered his magnum opus "Susannah" there, passed away in Tallahassee in September 2021 at age 95. The Carnegie Hall performance, alongside other centennial initiatives, aims to celebrate his enduring legacy and creative contributions to the arts.
