Musical history will be made when The Academy of Vocal Arts presents the Philadelphia premiere of Giuseppe Verdi’s first opera, “Oberto,” Jan. 26 and 27, in the Kimmel Center’s Perelman Theater, and Jan. 31 at The Haverford School. Featured in the role of Leonora will be 2011 Metropolitan Opera Competition winner and fourth year AVA resident artist Michelle Johnson.

Written over a 4-year period, “Oberto” had its first performance in Milan in 1839 and did not have its American premiere until 1978. It takes place in Northern Italy in 1228. Riccardo, the Count of Salinguerra, is about to wed Cuniza, the sister of Ezzelino da Romano, but has seduced and abandoned Leonora, daughter of Oberto, Count of San Bonafacio, who was recently defeated in battle by the Salinguerra.

Oberto and Leonora travel to Bassano, where the wedding is to take place to tell Cuniza. Unwilling to accept her future husband’s infidelity, Cuniza calls off the wedding — but Oberto demands revenge. He challenges Riccardo to a duel and is mortally wounded. Riccardo goes into self-imposed exile, and Leonora enters a convent.

Johnson, who along the way has captured additional awards such as top prize from the William Matheus Sullivan Foundation, and second prize, audience favorite, and WRTI broadcast radio audience favorite in the 2011 Giargiari Bel Canto Competition, among others, says she particularly enjoys her role in this opera since Verdi is her favorite composer.

“I’ve been born with a voice that’s just perfect for Verdi. It’s a larger, colorful instrument that can have flexibility to have long lines, be rhythmic and dramatic. I also enjoy the combination of music and acting. It hits on so many of my senses, and I think that’s what really draws me in.”

Born in Texas, Johnson says she never really pictured herself an opera singer. “I always wanted to be a singer, and loved being on the stage where I felt comfortable. But I thought it would all turn out to be a hobby of mine, and I’d eventually wind up being some kind of teacher. But one of my college teachers encouraged me to major in voice performance, and I’ve been on this track — the right track — ever since.”

After graduating from the New England Conservatory of Music, Johnson says she auditioned for AVA but didn’t make it. “I’d always heard of AVA as an undergraduate. It’s viewed as a finishing school for opera singers. So I auditioned but didn’t get it, although I never gave up. I went on to get an Opera Training Certificate from the Boston University Opera Institute before trying out again.”

For Johnson, the second time turned out to be a charm. Now completing her fourth year at AVA, she’ll then have to set out in the professional world of opera to make her mark.

“Having studied at AVA I know I’ve had one of the best educations possible. I think they make sure you dot all your I’s and cross all your T’s, and that makes us all good artists.”

Today, as a result of changing demands on opera singers, Johnson says these days being picked for an opera is not so much based on color — although that‘s still a factor — as much as it is the way you look.

“You have to be thin as a rail, good looking, and more. So prepare yourself to fit in and study languages, know your voice, and be true to yourself. If you have the confidence, nobody can deny your talent.”

For times and ticket information, call (215) 735-1685.