Camilla Williams was a trailblazing African American soprano who made history as the first African American woman to receive a contract with a major American opera company. Born in 1919 in Danville, Virginia, Williams was discovered by a voice teacher who recognized her exceptional talent and encouraged her to pursue a career in opera.

In 1946, she auditioned for the New York City Opera and was offered a contract, making her the first African American woman to be signed by a major opera company in the United States. Williams made her debut as Cio-Cio-San in Puccini's opera "Madama Butterfly" in 1946, and went on to have a successful career performing leading roles in operas such as "La Traviata," "Aida," and "Porgy and Bess."

Williams faced discrimination and prejudice during her career, but she persevered and paved the way for future generations of African American opera singers. She later transitioned to teaching voice at Indiana University and continued to be an advocate for diversity in the opera world.

Camilla Williams passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements in the world of classical music and opera.