Another Music Great Lost

While at work yesterday, strolling through USS Ronald Reagan's aircraft hanger bays, I was thinking of the passing of Luciano Pavarotti. It occurred to me that during the period when I was away from my computer Beverly Sills passed away.

She was another one of those whose influence was so huge that she seemed to be everywhere, informing and defining interpretations of opera. When one wanted to hear how it should be sung, one listened to Beverly Sills.

She passed away on this past July 2nd. Her last performance was at a farewell gala held on October 27th, 1980. We have had time to listen to other fine performers since then. Still, it is difficult to imagine a musical world without her. Following her final performance she remained heavily involved with the New York City Opera, the Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Opera, and most importantly her charity work for the March of Dimes and other charities seeking to help children with birth defects.

She was truly a great American.

Beverly Sills Farewell - Her Final Performance

Maestra, the world misses you. Rest in peace.

UPDATE:
Here are two performances of "Una Voce Poco Fa" from Il barbiere di Siviglia by Rossini, the first from 1971, the second from 1976.

What a magnificent performer!

Beverly Sills - Una Voce Poco Fa!! (1971)


Beverly Sills - Una Voce Poco Fa!! (1976)