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Rise StevensAmerican opera singer, mezzo-soprano
Date of Birth: 11.06.1913
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Biography of Rise Stevens
- Early Life and Education
- Operatic Career
- Metropolitan Opera and Later Career
- Recognition and Personal Life
Biography of Rise Stevens
IntroductionRise Stevens was an American opera singer and mezzo-soprano who was known for her passionate emotional vocals and impeccable technique. She was a star at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City for many years.
Early Life and Education
Rise Stevens was born on June 11, 1913, in New York City. She studied at the Juilliard School in New York under the guidance of Anne Schön-René for three years. After that, she went to Europe and received further training in Vienna with Marie Gutheil-Schoder and Herbert Graf.
Operatic Career
Stevens made her debut with a leading role in Ambroise Thomas's opera "Mignon" in Prague in 1936. She remained there until 1938, also performing as a guest singer at the Vienna State Opera. Her performances as Octavian in "Der Rosenkavalier" and Orfeo in "Orfeo ed Euridice" became her signature roles, which she frequently performed on stages around the world.
In 1938, Stevens was invited to sing at the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, where she once again portrayed the character of Octavian. In 1939, she made her debut at the Glyndebourne Festival, showcasing her talent in Mozart's operas "Così fan tutte" and "Le nozze di Figaro."
Stevens also caught the attention of Hollywood, not only for her exceptional vocal abilities but also for her beauty. She appeared in several films, including "The Chocolate Soldier" in 1941, where she starred alongside Nelson Eddy, and the musical drama "Going My Way" in 1944, with Bing Crosby in the lead role. In the latter film, Stevens showcased her contralto voice. Overall, she appeared in nine films and television roles, with her last work being the voice of the good witch Glinda in the animated film "Journey Back to Oz" in 1962.
Metropolitan Opera and Later Career
Stevens was a leading mezzo-soprano at the Metropolitan Opera for over two decades, until 1961. She was the only mezzo-soprano who earned as much as the most famous sopranos and tenors. Some of her most successful roles at the Met included Cherubino, Octavian, Dalila, Laura in "La Gioconda," Hänsel in "Hänsel und Gretel," and Marina Mniszech in "Boris Godunov." Her portrayal of Carmen was particularly acclaimed, which she performed and recorded multiple times.
Stevens also performed at other leading opera houses around the world, including Paris, Milan, and London. She made her final opera appearance in 1961 as Carmen at the Metropolitan Opera. After ending her opera career, Stevens served as the general manager of the Metropolitan Opera Touring Company until 1966. She then dedicated her time to teaching and mentoring young artists at the Met.
Recognition and Personal Life
On October 22, 1977, Stevens received the prestigious Award of Merit from the University of Pennsylvania Glee Club. This award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of music.
On January 6, 1939, Stevens married Austrian-American actor Walter Szurovy, and they were together until his passing in November 2001. They had a son, actor Nicolas Surovy, who was born in June 1944.
Rise Stevens continues to live in New York City, remaining as active and charming as ever.
