Leonie Rysanek (18 November 1926 – 7 March 1998) was an Austrian dramatic soprano renowned for her electrifying performances and a voice of both power and beauty. Her career spanned over four decades, capturing the hearts of opera enthusiasts around the world. Born in Vienna, Rysanek made her professional debut in 1949 as Agathe in Weber's "Der Freischütz." She quickly rose to prominence and became especially associated with the works of Richard Wagner and Richard Strauss, becoming one of the most sought-after interpreters of their operas.

Rysanek's remarkable vocal longevity and dramatic intensity brought to life some of the most challenging roles in the soprano repertoire. Her portrayals of Senta in Wagner’s "Der fliegende Holländer," the title role in Strauss's "Elektra," and the Dyer's Wife in Strauss's "Die Frau ohne Schatten" are often considered definitive. The power and emotional depth she brought to these roles were captured in numerous live recordings that continue to be celebrated posthumously. Beyond Wagner and Strauss, she left her mark in diverse roles, including Lady Macbeth in Verdi's "Macbeth," Leonora in Beethoven's "Fidelio," and Lisa in Tchaikovsky's "The Queen of Spades." Her contribution to opera was immense, and she remains a legend for both her vocal artistry and her commitment to the dramatic essence of each character she embodied.

Genres

Classical Soprano

Latest Release

Te Deum

Leonie Rysanek•

Angela Maria Blasi•

Christian Elsner•

Herbert Blomstedt•

Munich Philharmonic Orchestra•

Staatskapelle Dresden•

Raimund Nolte•

Hans Rudolf Zöbeley•

WDR Sinfonieorchester Köln•

Sir Colin Davis•

Günter Wand

Album - 42 Tracks - Released November 20, 2020