On this day in 1876 the Bayreuth Festspielhaus opens with the first complete performance of the Ring. Born on this day in 1893 bass Maxim Dormidontovich Mikhaylov.Born on this day in 1903 tenor James Johnston.Born on this day in 1912 tenor Francesco Albanese.Born on this day in 1920 soprano Elizabeth Fretwell.Happy 76th birthday mezzo-soprano Gertrude Jahn (singing the Feodor).Happy 70th birthday soprano Helena Doese (some sources say August 7).Happy 68th birthday soprano Kathleen Battle.
How green was my hill
On this day in 1876 the Bayreuth Festspielhaus opens with the first complete performance of the Ring.
By La Cieca La Cieca
James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.
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