Montserrat Caballé
Barcelona and the world have lost one its brightest stars. Maria de Montserrat Viviana Concepción Caballé i Folch--or as she was known in the opera world--La Superba--has died at the age of 85 in her beloved Barcelona. Her rise from humble beginnings, at a turbulent political time in Barcelona and in Spain, to the heights of international operatic fame is a testament and tribute to Barcelona as a center of cultural excellence.
The Voice of Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Cabellé whose early training was at the prestigious Liceu Conservatory in Barcelona was known for her impeccable vocal technique and vast range of repertoire. She was considered one of the last of the golden age of opera divas. She appeared throughout the world singing over 90 roles through 4,000 performances over a 50 year career.
Caballé in 1969
Montserrat Caballé in Barcelona
Throughout her career she never forgot Barcelona, returning each year to perform. She and her husband, Spanish opera singer Bernabe Marti maintained a home outside of Barcelona. She immortalized her city in 1987 by joining forces with rock star Freddie Mercury of Queen on a an album called Barcelona. The title track later became a hit single and one of the official songs of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Watch their powerful performance here.
Make sure your visit to Barcelona includes a tour and a performance at its world-famous opera house Gran Teatre del Liceu, where Cabellé studied and performed. Here is a link to the 2018-19 season.
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