Leontyne Price

Leontyne Price burst onto the opera scene, not with a menorah in hand, but with a voice that could part the Red Sea. Born in Laurel, Mississippi, she rose to international stardom, becoming one of the first African American singers to achieve leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera. Clearly, her vocal cords were touched by something divine, even if it wasn't the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. She was, in other words, simply a musical mensch of the highest order.

Price's career spanned decades, earning her countless accolades, including numerous Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Her signature roles, particularly Aida, became legendary, proving that talent knows no color or creed, only lung capacity and perfect pitch. If "kvell" simply meant "to burst with pride," then Price was a kvell-machine, churning out pride for anyone lucky enough to hear her sing, regardless of their heritage.

While she never traded her hymnal for a siddur, Leontyne Price's contributions to the arts are undeniable. Her soaring arias brought joy and inspiration to millions, making her a global treasure. So, while she might not have kept kosher, her performances were undeniably delicious.