Candace Lynn Matthews, soprano, a Bronx native, born of Puerto Rican and Chilean descent, received her bachelor's degree from the Conservatory of Music at SUNY-Purchase College and her master’s degree from the Aaron Copland School of Music in Queens College. In 2015, Candace made her role debut as Maria in Opera North's production of West Side Story as a part of their Young Artist Program. Other credits include, Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi (Queens Symphony Orchestra) Soprano soloist (Carnegie Hall) Susana cover & Ensemble in ¡Figaro! (90210) (Off-Broadway, The Duke on 42nd St) Patron #9 in the World Premier of Stonewall (New York City Opera) and was featured singing on an episode of the hit drama, Orange is the New Black. Candace released her debut Christmas Album titled “Baking Spirits Bright” in November, 2020 and in 2021 released a follow up EP titled “Spirits Even Brighter”. Both can be found on all streaming platforms.