We have always considered Ms. Scotto’s piercing intelligence and unique combination of tradition and innovation in her performances as beacons for parterre box.

She was the first great singer I ever heard and remains after half a century of attending the opera the greatest musical artist I have ever experienced in the theater.

I do not think it ironic or even milly inaccurate to call Renata Scotto my spiritual godmother.

[via Washington Post]