Kirsten Flagstad (1895–1962) was a towering figure in the opera world, a Norwegian soprano whose name became synonymous with the dramatic roles of the Germanic repertoire, particularly those of Richard Wagner. Born on July 12, 1895, in Hamar, Norway, Flagstad came from a musical family and was trained in Oslo before making her professional debut in 1913. Her pure and powerful voice, coupled with a robust emotional depth, enabled her to tackle the demanding Wagnerian roles that became her trademark.

Flagstad's international career took off in the 1930s when she was appointed the principal soprano at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, where she gained fame for her performances as Brünnhilde in Wagner's "Die Walküre" and Isolde in "Tristan und Isolde." During her career, she also made frequent appearances at the Royal Opera House in London and the Bayreuth Festival, where her interpretations were regarded as definitive. After the Second World War, despite controversies due to her return to Norway during the German occupation, she resumed her career and continued to deliver performances that thrilled audiences. Her extensive discography, particularly her recordings of Wagner's operas, remains highly prized for their majesty and insight. Kirsten Flagstad's legacy endures as one of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of all time, whose voice has been captured in numerous live and studio recordings that continue to enchant opera enthusiasts worldwide.

Genres

Classical Soprano

Opera

Wagnerian Singing

Latest Release

J.S. Bach, Handel (Adrian Boult – The Decca Legacy II, Vol. 7)

Kirsten Flagstad•

London Philharmonic Orchestra•

Sir Adrian Boult

Album - 10 Tracks - Released October 7, 2022