Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

June 3, 1937 in Birkenhead, Merseyside, England

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Valerie Masterson is a renowned British soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on June 3, 1937, in London, Masterson grew up in a musical family. Her father was a professional singer, and her mother was a pianist. Masterson's parents recognized her talent for singing at an early age and encouraged her to pursue a career in music. Masterson began her formal training in music at the Royal Academy of Music in London. She studied under the guidance of renowned vocal coaches such as Flora Nielsen and Roy Henderson. Masterson's talent and hard work paid off when she won the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier Memorial Scholarship in 1961. This scholarship enabled her to continue her studies in Italy, where she worked with the renowned soprano, Maria Callas. Masterson made her professional debut in 1963 at the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, where she played the role of Barbarina in Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro." Her performance was well-received, and she was soon offered more significant roles in other productions. Masterson's breakthrough role came in 1966 when she played the lead role of Lucia in Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor" at the English National Opera. Her performance was widely praised, and she became a household name in the world of opera. Masterson's career continued to flourish throughout the 1970s and 1980s. She performed in numerous productions at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Masterson was known for her versatility and ability to perform a wide range of roles, from the light-hearted operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan to the more dramatic works of Verdi and Puccini. One of Masterson's most memorable performances was in the 1977 production of "The Mikado" at the English National Opera. Masterson played the role of Yum-Yum, and her performance of the famous aria "The Sun Whose Rays" was widely praised. Masterson's performance in this production earned her the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Masterson's talent and hard work were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career. In 1982, she was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for her services to music. Masterson was also awarded the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 and the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002. Masterson retired from performing in 1997 but continued to be involved in the world of music. She became a vocal coach and worked with young singers, passing on her knowledge and experience to the next generation. Masterson also served as a judge for various singing competitions, including the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition. Valerie Masterson's contribution to the world of classical music is immeasurable. Her talent, hard work, and dedication to her craft have inspired countless singers and musicians around the world. Masterson's legacy will continue to live on through the many recordings and performances she left behind, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.

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