Frederica von Stade

Mezzo-soprano who made her debut with the Metropolitan Opera in 1970. Trained in the bel canto style, she is known for her roles in Rossini's The Barber of Seville and La Cenerentola. Made over sixty recordings, including complete operas, aria albums, symphonic works, solo recital programs, and popular crossover albums. She performed a wide range of musicals, from Show Boat to The Sound of Music to A Little Night Music. Also a respected recital artist, performing works ranging from Mozart and Haydn to Mahler to Broadway show tunes. She is well known to audiences around the world through her numerous featured appearances on television including several PBS specials, Live from Lincoln Center telecasts, and many Kennedy Center Honors broadcasts. Among her roles, she originated that of Tina in Dallas Opera's world premiere production of Argento's The Aspern Papers. She was also the featured performer at the opening ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. She retired from the operatic and concert stage in 2010 and now is furthering efforts to bring classical music to disadvantaged youth.