Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez, a trailblazing soprano who captivated audiences on opera stages and the silver screen, passed away peacefully on February 2nd, 2024, at her home in Lexington, Kentucky. She was 75.
Fernandez's musical journey began at a tender age, nurtured by the piano and church organ played by her mother in Philadelphia. At 7, her grandmother propelled her onto the stage of their Baptist church, igniting a lifelong passion for sharing her voice with the world. Following years of honing her craft at the Settlement Music School, the Philadelphia Academy of Vocal Arts, and Juilliard, she entered the professional opera world in the late 1970s.
Fernandez's path wasn't paved with rose petals. As one of the few Black singers navigating the opera world at the time, she encountered subtle biases. "The little falling of the face," as she described it, signaled rejection based on her race despite her immense talent.
Undeterred, Fernandez persevered. Her journey took her from Philadelphia's church choirs to the prestigious Paris Opera. It was there that she caught the eye of filmmaker Jean-Jacques Beineix, who sought her unique voice and presence for his debut film, "Diva."
"Diva," released in 1981, became a cult classic, captivating audiences with its unconventional plot, vibrant visuals, and Fernandez's captivating performance as Cynthia Hawkins, a reclusive opera star. Her portrayal resonated deeply, even with viewers who had never stepped foot in an opera house.
While "Diva" remained her sole film credit, Fernandez continued to flourish on opera stages across Europe. Her repertoire encompassed iconic roles like Verdi's Aida and Puccini's Musetta. Notably, she received critical acclaim for her portrayal of the title character in Oscar Hammerstein II's "Carmen Jones," winning a Laurence Olivier Award.
Beyond the opera house, Fernandez embraced education. She returned to college, earning degrees in music and special education. Until shortly before her passing, she dedicated herself to nurturing young minds as a special-education teacher at an elementary school in Lexington.
Fernandez's story transcends the captivating world of "Diva." She leaves a rich legacy as a talented vocalist, a trailblazer who challenged stereotypes, and a dedicated educator. Her life serves as an inspiration to aspiring singers, a testament to overcoming adversity, and a reminder of the transformative power of music.
