Mary Ella Collins, an opera singer, piano and voice instructor, humanitarian, advocate for the arts, and entrepreneur, joined the heavenly choir on September 23, 2020 in Dallas. She was born December 28, 1933 in Hamilton, Texas to the late Willis and Retha Lester Collins. She dedicated her life to promoting and furthering the careers of musicians and educating others on the importance of music in their lives.
Dr. Collins holds a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas (Higher Education Administration; Music Teaching Field), Master of Music from UNT, graduate study in Music Therapy, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Illinois.
The following is taken from her website, with the permission of her family:
"In 1985 Dr. Collins established an Artist Management business, Mary Ella Collins and Associates. MECA represented a select roster of classical singers, conductors, and directors, nationally and abroad. Artists on the roster have achieved notoriety including a bass that has sung featured roles in nine successive full seasons with the Metropolitan Opera, and artists in leading roles with major companies for operas and orchestras worldwide. She continues giving business services, guidance, and inspiration to empower performers in developing their careers.
Her leadership abilities as a visionary are combined with analytic and inductive reasoning, abstract thinking, problem solving, and creative abilities. She is sought for consultations by organizations and individuals from varied professions for her keen insights and these qualities. Her engagements include workshops, seminars, and adjudication of music performances. Dr. Collins holds a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas (Higher Education Administration; Music Teaching Field), Master of Music from UNT, graduate study in Music Therapy, and a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from the University of Illinois.
Dr. Collins’ many humanitarian experiences range from training in music therapy, medical and dental assistance, to serving on boards of medical societies. She serves on Guilds and Boards of many Arts Nonprofits, including The Dallas Opera (Guild Chair of Community Outreach), Dallas Symphony, Dallas Theatre Center, and Musical Angels (Board Consultant). And reaches out to under-served communities. Her integrity, enthusiasm, and energy are the foundation of all her activities and service."
Dr. Collins is survived by 4 daughters: Macie Breed, Lindsey Tootle, Katina Antahades and husband, Eddy Tan, and Tasia Antahades; Sister: Macie Zorn and her husband, John; Brother: Raymond Collins; Grandchildren: Eric Fairfax, Joshua Hays and Katy Tootle, along with friends, clients and professional colleagues around the world.
Due to Covid concerns, her funeral services will be private, however, you are invited to share memories on this site.
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