Nellie Melba

Date of Birth: May 19, 1861

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: February 23, 1931

Biography

Nellie Melba, born Helen Porter Mitchell, was an Australian operatic soprano who became one of the most famous singers of the late Victorian era and the early 20th century. She was born on May 19, 1861, in Richmond, Victoria, Australia. Melba was the first Australian to achieve international recognition as a classical musician. She took the pseudonym “Melba” from Melbourne, her hometown. Her career began modestly in Australia, but she moved to Europe to find greater opportunities. Melba made her debut in Brussels in 1887, and her breakthrough came with her performance in “Rigoletto” at Covent Garden in London. She became a regular performer at Covent Garden, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Paris Opera. Known for her pure, silvery voice and her technical skill, she became one of the most celebrated singers of her time. Her repertoire included roles in operas by composers like Verdi, Puccini, and Gounod. She was particularly noted for her portrayals of Mimi in “La Bohème” and Violetta in “La Traviata.” In addition to her operatic performances, Melba was a noted recitalist and recording artist. She made many recordings that brought her voice to a wider audience. Apart from her musical career, Melba was also known for her charitable work, particularly during World War I, when she helped raise funds for war efforts. She was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1918 for her services to music and her charitable work. Melba passed away on February 23, 1931, in Sydney, Australia, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of opera.

5 Interesting Facts about Nellie Melba

1. Nellie Melba was the first Australian to achieve international recognition as a classical musician.

2. She was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1918.

3. Melba was known for her famous saying, “Sing ‘em muck; it’s all they can understand.”

4. She was a significant figure in early recording history, making numerous recordings for the gramophone.

5. The dessert “Peach Melba” was created in her honor by the French chef Auguste Escoffier.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Nellie Melba

1. “The first rule in opera is the first rule in life: see to everything yourself.”

2. “Sing ‘em muck; it’s all they can understand.”

3. “Art is eternal, but life is short.”

4. “If I have my voice, I’m not afraid of anything.”

5. “Music is a beautiful opiate, if you don’t take it too seriously.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of her career, Nellie Melba achieved a net worth estimated to be around $25 million in today’s dollars, a significant amount for an artist of her time.