Maria Jeritza was an Austrian-born operatic soprano who achieved international acclaim during the early 20th century. Born on October 6, 1887, in Brno, Austria-Hungary (now Czech Republic), she became one of the leading sopranos of her time. Known for her powerful and dramatic voice, Jeritza had a wide vocal range and was highly regarded for her performances in both German and Italian opera.
Jeritza made her debut at the Vienna Court Opera in 1912, where she quickly gained recognition for her exceptional vocal abilities and commanding stage presence. She became particularly renowned for her portrayals of Wagnerian heroines, including Elsa in "Lohengrin" and Senta in "The Flying Dutchman." However, she also excelled in Italian roles, notably performing the title roles in "Tosca" and "Turandot" with great success.
Throughout her career, Jeritza performed extensively in Europe and the United States, captivating audiences with her rich, lyrical voice and expressive interpretations. Her impeccable technique and ability to convey intense emotions on stage made her one of the most celebrated sopranos of her generation. Jeritza retired from the stage in 1935 but continued to support and mentor young singers until her death on July 10, 1982, in Orange, New Jersey.
Maria Jeritza's legacy endures as a legendary figure in the world of opera, revered for her vocal prowess, dramatic talent, and contribution to the art of singing.
