Cathryn Fluellen [Cathryn] Ballinger (16/02/1930 - 19/07/2011), a female American mezzosoprano, from New Castle, Alabama, USA of African descent. Pioneering African American (mezzo-soprano) opera singer. Achievements included The Metropolitan Opera, Lincoln Center, Los Angeles Camerata, Chapel Records, Congress Hall in Zurich, and Who's Who of Music.