Matilda Sissieretta Joyner Jones was an American soprano. She sometimes was called "The Black Patti" in reference to Italian opera singer Adelina Patti. Jones' repertoire included grand opera, light opera, and popular music.
Sissieretta Jones—famous for her elaborate gowns and glittering array of medals in addition to her voice—was one of the first African American artists to perform at Carnegie Hall.
Here, Carnegie Hall's Archives and Museum Director Gino Francesconi relates the story of rise and fall of "The Black Patti" and how we came to have a very rare piece of Sissieretta Jones memorabilia on display in the Rose Museum at the Hall.
Reviving the History of Legendary Opera Singer Sissieretta Jones
The Black Opera Singer Who Lit the 19th Century on Fire
