Teresa Berganza was a Spanish mezzo-soprano known for her remarkable performances in operas such as Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” and “Le Nozze di Figaro.” She also gained fame for her work in various productions and concerts throughout her career.
Personal and Family Life
Born on March 16, 1933, in Madrid, Spain, Teresa Berganza had a passion for music from an early age. Originally aspiring to be a nun, she enrolled in the Madrid Conservatory to study piano and organ. However, her singing talent was recognized, leading her to pursue a career as a vocalist instead. Throughout her life, she was married twice, first to Felix Lavilla, with whom she had three children, and later to José Rifá.
Career Highlights
Berganza made her operatic debut in 1967 at the Aix-en-Provence Festival, stealing the spotlight as Dorabella in Mozart’s “Così Fan Tutte.” Her performance as Cherubino in “Le Nozze di Figaro” at Glyndebourne brought her significant acclaim. She later debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in the same role, working alongside distinguished artists like Mirella Freni and Cesare Siepi. In addition to her success in opera, she was involved in significant cultural events, including the opening ceremonies of Expo ’92 and the 1992 Summer Olympics.
Death and Legacy
Teresa Berganza passed away on May 13, 2022, in Madrid, Spain. Her contributions to the world of opera and classical music left a lasting impact, and she is remembered for her exceptional talent and dedication to her art. Her performances continue to inspire new generations of singers and musicians.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Don Giovanni | 1979-11-06 | Zerlina |
| Grimm | 2003-10-08 | Mother |
| Georges Bizet: Carmen | 1980-05-15 | Carmen |
| Il Barbiere di Siviglia | 1973-01-01 | Rosina |
| El corazón del Teatro Real | 2018-09-23 | Herself |
| Da Capo | 1986-02-01 | Self |
| Cuéntame cómo pasó | 2001-09-13 | Helena Berriatúa |
| Le Grand Échiquier | 1972-01-12 | Self |
| Numéro un | 1975-04-05 | Self |
| Le monde est à vous | 1987-09-13 | Self |