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Lina PagliughiItalian-American opera singer
Date of Birth: 27.05.1907
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Lina Pagliughi: The Celestial Nightingale
- Early Life and Education
- Operatic Debut and Acclaim
- Height of Fame
- Post-War Career
- Recordings and Legacy
- Personal Life and Death
Lina Pagliughi: The Celestial Nightingale
Lina Pagliughi, an Italian-American soprano, became an international opera sensation during the 1930s and 1940s.
Early Life and Education
Born in Brooklyn, New York, on May 27, 1907, Pagliughi's love for singing emerged at an early age. Her talent was recognized by renowned soprano Luisa Tetrazzini, who encouraged her to pursue opera. In 1922, she relocated to Milan, Italy, to study under Gaetano Bavagnoli.
Operatic Debut and Acclaim
Pagliughi made her operatic debut in 1927 as Gilda in Verdi's "Rigoletto" at the Teatro Communale in Milan. Her exquisite and agile soprano voice garnered critical acclaim, leading to her immediate engagement in a complete recording of the opera alongside Luigi Piazza and Tino Folgar.
Height of Fame
Pagliughi's star quickly ascended, and she became a sought-after performer at major Italian opera houses. Critics hailed her as the successor to the esteemed Toti dal Monte, showcasing her mastery of Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti's repertoire.
Post-War Career
Despite a successful Australian tour and performances in Europe, Pagliughi primarily confined her career to Italy. Physical changes later affected her stage presence, prompting her retirement from the opera stage in 1947. However, she continued to perform on Italian radio for several years and embarked on a teaching career, passing on her knowledge to aspiring singers like Hjördis Schymberg.
Recordings and Legacy
Pagliughi left an extensive discography, consisting primarily of operatic excerpts. Notable complete opera recordings include "Lucia di Lammermoor," "La Fille du Régiment," "Un Giorno di Regno," "Rigoletto," and the celebrated "La Sonnambula" with Ferruccio Tagliavini and Cesare Siepi. Her recordings continue to be highly regarded by opera enthusiasts.
Personal Life and Death
Pagliughi married tenor Primo Montanari. She passed away in Rome on October 2, 1980, at the age of 73, leaving a significant mark on the world of opera as one of the most exquisite lyrical coloratura sopranos of her time.
