Carla Wood, Editor-in-chief of Classical Singer magazine for eighteen years, died of cancer on 13 July 2005, aged fifty.
Born on 26 February 1955 in Los Angeles, CA, USA, C J (Carla Jane) Williamson trained to become both a classical pianist and an opera singer, singing at Carnegie Hall, The Met, New York City Opera and regionally.
In 1988 she began publishing what was initially known as the New York Opera Newsletter, containing career information and advice for singers. This expanded, due to Carla's drive, to become an international magazine with more than 6,000 readers in 25 countries, and to have a deep impact on the singing profession.
In 2004 she established the Classical Singer Convention, and in 2005 the College Expo, to help young singers. A Carla Wood Memorial Vocal Scholarship has been established at Brigham Young University, which will allow Carla's commitment to helping singers succeed continue in the future.