Tenor Fred C. VanNess, Jr. performs a wide variety of repertoire on stages across New England. Mr. VanNess has appeared as Russell Davenport in the acclaimed new opera Freedom Ride (Shore) presented in a co-production by MASSOpera and Chicago Opera Theater, Voltaire/Dr. Pangloss in Candide (Bernstein), Don Ottavio in Don Giovanni (Mozart), Don José in Carmen (Bizet), and Rodolfo in La bohème (Puccini). An avid concert performer, Mr. VanNess is a member of Castle of our Skins, an organization dedicated to celebrating Black artistry through music. He has also been featured in solo recitals with Lake Charles Symphony, Salem Philharmonic, and Coushatta Casino Resort. Mr. VanNess has developed and performed a one-man show, showcasing some of his favorite music alongside his unique point of view as an artist. His most recent show, When I Think of Home…, premiered at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Mr. VanNess holds degrees from The Longy School of Music of Bard College, Louisiana State University, and McNeese State University.