Astrid Varnay was a legendary soprano whose voice and dramatic presence graced the world's greatest opera stages throughout the mid-20th century. Born in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1918 to Hungarian parents, Ibolyka Astrid Maria Varnay grew to become one of the most revered dramatic sopranos of her time, particularly known for her interpretations of Richard Wagner's works. She made her debut in a fortuitous fashion, stepping in for an ailing Lotte Lehmann in the role of Sieglinde in Wagner's "Die Walküre" at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1941, which catapulted her into stardom.

Varnay's career was marked by her commanding vocal prowess and her ability to take on some of the most challenging roles in the operatic repertoire. Her mastery of the Wagnerian oeuvre was unparalleled, from the vengeful Brünnhilde to the spectral Senta in "Der fliegende Holländer." She was a mainstay at the Bayreuth Festival, where she delivered numerous unforgettable performances. Varnay's fierce dedication to her craft led her to consistently study and evolve her roles, shining in other dramatic parts such as those in "Tannhäuser" and "Tristan und Isolde." Her live performances have left a legacy preserved in numerous recordings, which remain a testament to her significant impact on the opera world. She continued to perform into the 1990s, transitioning into character roles, and her passing in 2006 marked the end of an era for operatic sopranos.

Genres

Classical Soprano

Latest Release

Wagner, Grieg & Others: Vocal Works (Live)

Astrid Varnay

Album - 42 Tracks - Released July 9, 2021