Top mezzo calls it quits at 58
OrchestrasThe Austrian mezzo-soprano Angelika Kirchschlager has told a Zurich Opera podcast that she has sung her last opera.
Her final appearance is currently in Zurich’s Sweeney Todd.
Salzburg born, Kirchschlager made her name internationally in the title role of Nicholas Maw’s Holocaust opera Sophie’s Choice, which she premiered at Covent Garden in 2002.
Wonderful voice.
I heard her in Rosenkavalier in Seattle in 1997, and she was magnificent. I think by 2002 she was firmly established. I guess 26+ years is a good career.
Salaburg sounds appropriately healthy
My favourite performance is Hansel and Gretel
I saw her in Les Contes d’Hoffmann at Paris Opera in 2000. She sang Niklausse very well, a classy artist.
So many excellent singers coming up now, room will be needed at the top.
I wonder if anyone has asked why she is retiring at just 58?
She’s not necessarily retiring, just from opera. I guess she’ll still do concerts.
My guess is that opera is a lot of work. And if you look back a lot of notable singers were done by that age.
But maybe she’ll turn up in a small character role occasionally.
Because she can’t sing anymore, obviously