nia imani

Nia Imani Franklin has transitioned from Miss America 2019 to an accomplished composer, opera singer, and advocate for arts education. After transitioning from Miss America 2019, Nia Imani Franklin has established herself as an accomplished composer, opera singer, and advocate for arts education. Building on a robust musical foundation, Franklin earned a degree in music composition from East Carolina University in 2015, followed by a Master of Music degree in music composition from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in 2017. During her time at UNCSA, she composed her chamber opera titled ‘King Solomon,’ which premiered in 2015.

In March 2021, Franklin was commissioned by the Dallas Symphony to write ‘Chrysalis Extended.’ She subsequently released an EP titled ‘Extended’ in 2021, which featured her orchestral piece performed by The Re-Collective Orchestra, an ensemble of color. Her musical presence extended to television with a feature in the Netflix docuseries ‘Colin In Black and White.’ Additionally, Franklin performed her original song ‘Hello, Miss America’ at the Miss America 2021 centennial competition and made an appearance in a Festival Napa Valley performance, showcasing her versatile talents across various platforms. Today, Nia Imani Franklin stands as a dynamic multi-hyphenate talent whose work spans composition, opera performance, and influential arts advocacy. Her unique journey from national titleholder to acclaimed artist underscores her commitment to both musical excellence and social impact.

With a growing body of work and a clear dedication to championing diverse voices in classical music, Franklin continues to be a compelling force in the arts, actively contributing to the cultural landscape as both a creator and a leader.