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Joan SutherlandAustralian singer (coloratura soprano)
Date of Birth: 07.11.1926
Country:  Australia |
Content:
- Biography of Joan Sutherland
- A Dramatic Coloratura Soprano
- The Breakthrough Role
- International Success
- Australian Operatic Tours
- Recognition and Honors
Biography of Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, born on November 7, 1926, in Sydney, Australia, was an Australian singer (coloratura soprano). She made her debut on the stage in 1951 in the opera "Judith" by Y. Goussens. After a year of study at the Royal College of Music in London, she first performed at the Covent Garden Theatre in Mozart's "The Magic Flute".
A Dramatic Coloratura Soprano
Joan Sutherland, with her powerful voice and statuesque figure, was perfectly suited for dramatic roles. In her early London period, she performed as Aida in Verdi's opera of the same name, Eva in Wagner's "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg", and Agathe in Weber's "Der Freischütz". Due to her consistent work, Sutherland became the embodiment of a dramatic coloratura singer, reviving the best days of bel canto in the early 20th century.
The Breakthrough Role
In 1959, Covent Garden staged Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor" for Sutherland, directed by F. Zeffirelli. The role of Lucia propelled her to the forefront of promising bel canto singers at a time when Maria Callas was at the height of her fame.
International Success
Sutherland first performed in North America in Vancouver in 1958, playing the role of Donna Anna in Mozart's "Don Giovanni". She made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1961, portraying Lucia. Soon, she added roles from operas by Bellini and Rossini to her repertoire.
Australian Operatic Tours
In 1965, Sutherland established her own opera company for extended tours in Australia. In 1974, she and her husband, R. Bonynge, returned to their home country and participated in the annual seasons of the Australian Opera.
Recognition and Honors
In 1979, Joan Sutherland was awarded the Order of the British Empire for her contributions to the arts.
