Free Press staff report 

The Library of Virginia will present its highest honor, the Patron of Letters degree, to acclaimed musician and composer Damien Geter during the 28th annual Virginia Literary Awards Celebration on Sept. 20.

The award, granted by the Library Board, recognizes outstanding contributions in the arts, history, humanities, or information, library or archival science. 

Geter, a Petersburg native who grew up in Chesterfield County, has gained national recognition for blending classical music with influences from the Black diaspora to create works that address social justice issues. 

“Damien Geter’s contributions as a composer and performer have made an extraordinary impact on music and culture throughout the Commonwealth and beyond,” Library Board Chair Malfourd Trumbo said in a statement. “We’re proud to recognize him with the Library’s highest honor for his remarkable artistry.” 

A graduate of Matoaca High School, Geter earned a bachelor’s degree in music education from Old Dominion University in 2002 and a master’s in conducting from Indiana State University in 2004. As a bass-baritone, he has performed with opera companies across the country, including the Metropolitan Opera. 

In May, the Virginia Opera premiered his new major work, “Loving v. Virginia,” concluding its 50th anniversary season. The opera, based on the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that struck down laws banning interracial marriage, was co-commissioned by the Virginia Opera and the Richmond Symphony and co-produced with the Minnesota Opera. Another opera, “The Delta King’s Blues,” will debut later this year. 

“What a privilege it is to be recognized by my hometown team in such a profound way,” Geter said. “The Commonwealth of Virginia — the place where I was born and the place I carry with me in my heart — is an enduring part of who I am.” 

Geter is owner of DG Music and Sans Fear Publishing, interim music director and artistic advisor at the Portland Opera, and composer-in-residence for the Richmond Symphony through 2026. His compositions include works for chamber and orchestra, vocal ensemble and opera. 

Tickets for the Virginia Literary Awards Celebration are available at lvafoundation.org.