Internationally acclaimed tenor Gregory Turay has captivated audiences around the globe with his powerful voice and remarkable artistry. With a career spanning over 20 years, Turay has earned some of the highest accolades in the opera world, establishing himself as a leading figure in the genre.

Turay's repertoire includes many of opera's most beloved roles, showcasing his versatility and depth as a performer. He has portrayed characters such as Cavaradossi in "Tosca, Fenton in Falstaff", Il Duca in "Rigoletto", Hylas in "Les Troyens", Ernesto in "Don Pasquale", Nadir in "Les Pêcheurs de Perles", Don Ottavio in "Don Giovanni", Grigory in "Boris Godunov", Orfeo in "Orfeo ed Euridice", Tamino in "Die Zauberflöte", Romeo in "Roméo et Juliette", and Tony in "West Side Story", among many others.

Turay has graced the stages of some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera House, Lyric Opera of Chicago, San Francisco Opera, Washington National Opera, Saito Kinen Festival in Japan, Il Escorial Opera in Spain, Wolf Trap Opera, Santa Fe Opera, English National Opera, Welsh National Opera, Bordeaux Opera, and Opera Theatre of St. Louis.

In addition to his operatic performances, Turay is a dedicated recitalist and has been honored with numerous awards, including the Richard Tucker Award, the London Foundation Award, the Richard Gaddes Award, the Catherine Pope Foundation Award, and as a Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions winner.

A three-time graduate of the University of Kentucky, Turay currently resides in Lexington, where he serves as executive director of ComposeArts, a performing and educational arts organization dedicated to championing female composers and visual artists. The organization aims to elevate the human spirit through the therapeutic channels of music and art.

Despite his busy schedule, Turay continues to travel extensively, sharing his passion for music both nationally and internationally. His commitment to his craft and the arts community remains unwavering, making him a significant figure in the world of opera and beyond.

Artist's statement

I am truly humbled and honored to receive this recognition, which is a testament not only to my own journey but also to the incredible artists, musicians, and mentors who have profoundly shaped my artistry and skills. This award acknowledges the vibrant creative community in Kentucky, where it is a privilege to contribute to a culture that champions the arts so passionately. Being recognized in this context reinforces the vital role that creative artists play in enriching our society. My experience in Kentucky continues to inspire me in unexpected ways, deepening my commitment to the arts.

As the Executive Director of ComposeArts, a nonprofit organization dedicated to elevating women in the arts, I see my role as essential in promoting artistic expression across the state. I am committed to fostering platforms that amplify underrepresented voices and celebrate the contributions of women artists. Through our programming, performances, and educational outreach, we strive to bring the arts into communities throughout Kentucky, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with and appreciate the transformative power of creativity.

My work, alongside the efforts of countless others, reflects a Kentucky rich in culture and the arts. I have traveled extensively across the state and have witnessed firsthand the diverse artistic landscape that thrives here. From Bluegrass to Opera, Jazz to Poetry, Sculpture to Symphony, and Big Band to Ballet, Kentucky offers a unique tapestry of artistic expression. My work aims to showcase this richness, inviting both residents and visitors to appreciate the creativity that flourishes in our region. Together, we celebrate the arts as a vital part of our identity and community, demonstrating that Kentucky is a place where creativity knows no bounds.