Berganza, Teresa (1934—)

views updated

Berganza, Teresa (1934—)

Spanish mezzo-soprano. Born on March 16, 1934, in Madrid, Spain; studied withLola Rodriguez Aragon ; married Felix Lavilla (a composer).

Won a singing prize in Madrid (1954); debuted at Aix-en-Provence Festival (1957), as Dorabella in Cosi fan tutte; debuted at Piccola Scala and Glyndebourne (1958); made American debut in Dallas (1958); debuted at Covent Garden (1960); made debut at Metropolitan Opera (1967).

Teresa Berganza specialized in early Italian opera, singing roles by Monteverdi, Purcell, and Handel although she later became known for her roles by Mozart and Rossini. Especially noted as an interpreter of Rossini, she frequently performed as Rosina in Il barbiere di Siviglia (Barber of Seville) and as Cinderella. Her voice, sweet and light, was said to blend perfectly with the orchestra. A lively actress, she was effective in evoking the tragic and heroic aspects of Mozart, as well as the comic. Berganza made several recordings which demonstrate the deftness of her coloratura.

John Haag , Athens, Georgia

More From encyclopedia.com