Mary Garden

**Mary Garden** was a trailblazing Scottish-American soprano who became one of the most celebrated opera stars of the early 20th century. Known for her luminous voice and dramatic intensity, she’s forever linked to Claude Debussy’s *Pelléas et Mélisande*, having originated the role of Mélisande in 1902—a performance that cemented her reputation as a daring interpreter of modern French opera. Garden’s career flourished with the Chicago Opera Company, where she charmed audiences with her versatility in roles ranging from *Thaïs* to *Salome*. Beyond singing, she broke barriers as one of the first female opera directors in the U.S., shaping productions with her bold artistic vision. Her recordings, including the tender *At Dawning (I Love You)*, showcase her knack for blending vocal elegance with emotional storytelling. A true diva of her time, Mary Garden left an indelible mark on both sides of the Atlantic with her fearless artistry.

Genres