Risë Stevens

Risë Stevens was an American operatic mezzo-soprano who achieved international acclaim for her powerful voice, dramatic interpretations, and memorable performances. Here are some key facts about her:

1. Early Life and Training: Risë Stevens was born as Risë Steenberg on June 11, 1913, in New York City, United States. She showed an early interest in music and began studying piano and voice as a child. Stevens received formal training at the Juilliard School, where she honed her vocal skills and developed her artistry under the guidance of renowned vocal instructors.

2. Operatic Career: Stevens made her operatic debut in 1936, performing the role of Mignon in Ambroise Thomas's opera "Mignon" at the New York Metropolitan Opera. Her rich, velvety mezzo-soprano voice and magnetic stage presence quickly earned her recognition as one of the leading mezzo-sopranos of her generation. Stevens went on to portray a wide range of roles in the operatic repertoire, including Carmen in Bizet's "Carmen", Dalila in Saint-Saëns's "Samson et Dalila", and Octavian in Strauss's "Der Rosenkavalier".

3. Collaborations and Partnerships: Throughout her illustrious career, Risë Stevens collaborated with some of the most celebrated conductors, directors, and singers in the opera world. She performed alongside legendary sopranos such as Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi, and Joan Sutherland, as well as esteemed tenors like Jussi Björling and Lauritz Melchior. Stevens's ability to command the stage and captivate audiences with her powerful voice and dramatic intensity made her a sought-after performer in opera houses around the world.

4. Broadway and Film Career: In addition to her operatic achievements, Risë Stevens also made significant contributions to Broadway and film. She starred in the Broadway musical "The Chocolate Soldier" in 1947, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of Nadina Popoff. Stevens also appeared in several Hollywood films, including "Going My Way" (1944) alongside Bing Crosby, for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Olga Katrina.

5. Legacy and Recognition: Risë Stevens's contributions to the world of opera and performing arts have been widely recognized and celebrated. She received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded to her by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1963. Stevens's legacy as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos of the 20th century continues to inspire aspiring opera singers and music lovers around the world.

Risë Stevens passed away on March 20, 2013, at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of ar