Di Murska, Ilma (1836–1889)
Di Murska, Ilma (1836–1889)
Croatian soprano, a European opera star of great renown in the 19th century. Born in Zagreb on January 4, 1836; died in Munich, Germany, on January 14, 1889.
Ilma Di Murska's vocal range was over three octaves, powerful and memorable. She studied in Vienna before going to Paris to study with Mathilde Marchesi and made her debut in Florence in 1862 as Lady Harriet in Martha. Soon, Di Murska was on the European opera circuit singing in Budapest, Berlin, Hamburg, and Vienna. In 1865, she appeared at Her Majesty's Theater in London, singing there until 1873 with Mapleson's company. She sang in the first Wagner opera heard in London, appearing as Senta in Der fliegende Holländer. Though particularly well known for her interpretation of Queen of the Night, Di Murska also sang Konstanze, Amina, Marguerite de Valois, Dinorah, and Ophelia. A sometimes extravagant actress, she was known for her original performances and her professional singing.
John Haag , Athens, Georgia