Leonie Rysanek

Leonie Rysanek, born Leopoldine Rysanek, was an Austrian dramatic soprano renowned for her powerful voice and exceptional acting skills on the opera stage. Born into a musical family in Vienna in 1926, Rysanek's early ambition was to become a singing actress, a goal she pursued with dedication and passion. She honed her craft at the Vienna Conservatory under the guidance of baritone Alfred Jerger and later Rudolf Grossmann, whom she married in 1950. Rysanek's operatic debut came in 1949 as Agathe in Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz" in Innsbruck, marking the beginning of a illustrious career that spanned over four decades.

Rysanek's breakthrough role came in 1951 when she was invited by Wieland Wagner to sing Sieglinde in "Die Walküre" at the Bayreuth Festival, conducted by the legendary Herbert von Karajan. This performance launched her international career, leading her to perform at prestigious venues such as the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and the San Francisco Opera. Her repertoire included signature roles in operas by Verdi, Wagner, and Strauss, showcasing her full, glowing tone and her ability to craft a line with exemplary precision.

Throughout her career, Leonie Rysanek was celebrated not just for her vocal prowess but also for her extraordinary ability to embody her characters, making her a favorite among opera enthusiasts worldwide. Her legacy as one of the most famous post-war sopranos continues to inspire new generations of singers and audiences alike.