Benita Valente

Benita Valente, the esteemed American soprano, is celebrated for her remarkable versatility and artistry across opera, lieder, chamber music, and oratorio. Born in Delano, California in 1934, Valente's career took off after her triumph at the Metropolitan Opera Auditions in 1960, making her the first and only winner that year. Her career spanned over four decades, showcasing her keen musicianship and a voice described as warm and shimmery. After retiring from singing in 2000, Valente dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of singers as a master teacher and educator. Her legacy continues to inspire, with rare recordings and re-releases like "Great Singers of the 20th Century, Vol. 1" offering a glimpse into her extraordinary talent.