Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

1858 in Décazeville

Death

:

1942 in Millau

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

Emma Calvé was a French operatic soprano who was born on August 15, 1858, in Decazeville, France. She was born as Rosa Emma Calvet, but later changed her name to Emma Calvé. Her father was a mining engineer, and her mother was a singer. Emma Calvé grew up in a musical family, and her mother was her first music teacher. Emma Calvé began her music career as a pianist, but later switched to singing. She studied at the Paris Conservatory, where she was a student of Mathilde Marchesi. She made her operatic debut in Brussels in 1882, in the role of Marguerite in Gounod's Faust. She quickly became known for her powerful voice and dramatic stage presence. In 1884, Emma Calvé made her debut at the Paris Opera, in the role of Santuzza in Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana. She was an instant success, and her performance was praised by critics and audiences alike. She went on to perform at the Paris Opera for many years, in roles such as Carmen, Salome, and Tosca. Emma Calvé also performed in other major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and La Scala in Milan. She was known for her passionate performances, and her ability to bring a character to life on stage. One of Emma Calvé's most famous performances was in the title role of Carmen, which she performed over 1,000 times throughout her career. She was known for her fiery interpretation of the role, and her performance of the Habanera and Seguidilla became legendary. Emma Calvé was also a pioneer in the use of recordings to promote her career. She made many recordings of her performances, which were sold to the public and helped to increase her popularity. In addition to her opera performances, Emma Calvé also performed in concerts and recitals. She was known for her interpretations of French art songs, and she often performed the works of composers such as Debussy and Fauré. Emma Calvé received many awards and honors throughout her career. In 1901, she was awarded the Legion of Honor, one of the highest honors in France. She was also awarded the Order of Isabella the Catholic by the King of Spain, and the Order of the Crown by the King of Italy. Emma Calvé retired from the stage in 1915, at the age of 57. She continued to teach singing, and she also wrote a memoir about her life and career, titled "My Life." Emma Calvé died on January 6, 1942, at the age of 83. She is remembered as one of the greatest sopranos of her time, and her recordings and performances continue to inspire singers and music lovers around the world.

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