Country

:

Sweden

Birth

:

May 19, 1896 in Venjan

Death

:

April 12, 1970 in Hedemora, Sweden

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

 

Symphony

 

Kerstin Thorborg was a Swedish-born mezzo-soprano who became one of the most celebrated classical music artists of the 20th century. Born on May 19, 1896, in Karlstad, Sweden, Thorborg showed an early interest in music and began studying voice at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Stockholm at the age of 16. After completing her studies, Thorborg made her professional debut in 1923 at the Royal Opera in Stockholm, where she quickly established herself as a rising star. Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence earned her critical acclaim and a loyal following among audiences. In 1925, Thorborg made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where she would go on to perform for the next 20 years. She quickly became a favorite of audiences and critics alike, earning praise for her rich, warm voice and her ability to convey deep emotion through her performances. Over the course of her career, Thorborg performed in a wide range of operas and concerts, including works by Mozart, Verdi, Wagner, and Strauss. She was particularly renowned for her performances in the works of Richard Wagner, and was widely regarded as one of the greatest interpreters of his music. One of Thorborg's most memorable performances came in 1936, when she sang the role of Erda in a production of Wagner's "Das Rheingold" at the Metropolitan Opera. Her powerful, haunting rendition of the aria "Weiche, Wotan, weiche!" ("Yield, Wotan, yield!") earned her a standing ovation and cemented her reputation as one of the greatest Wagnerian singers of her time. Thorborg also made a number of recordings throughout her career, including several acclaimed performances of Wagner's music. Her recordings remain highly regarded by classical music enthusiasts to this day. In addition to her performances, Thorborg was also known for her philanthropic work. She was a dedicated supporter of the arts and was involved in a number of charitable organizations throughout her life. Thorborg retired from performing in 1945, but remained active in the classical music community until her death in 1970. She was widely regarded as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos of the 20th century, and her legacy continues to inspire and influence classical music artists around the world.

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