Rudolf Bing

Date of Birth: January 9, 1902

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: September 2, 1997

Biography

Rudolf Bing was born on January 9, 1902, in Vienna, Austria. He was a significant figure in the world of opera, best known for his tenure as the general manager of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City from 1950 to 1972. Bing initially studied music in Vienna and subsequently worked in various opera houses across Europe. He was deeply involved in the cultural scene in Germany and England before moving to the United States. During his time at the Met, Bing was known for his bold and innovative decisions, including the desegregation of the company, the introduction of new works, and the hiring of internationally renowned artists. His efforts greatly contributed to the Met’s reputation as one of the leading opera houses in the world. Rudolf Bing passed away on September 2, 1997, in Yonkers, New York, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of opera.

5 Interesting Facts about Rudolf Bing

1. Rudolf Bing was instrumental in desegregating the Metropolitan Opera by hiring African-American singers like Marian Anderson.

2. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1971 for his contributions to the arts.

3. Bing’s autobiography, “5,000 Nights at the Opera,” details his extensive career and experiences in the world of opera.

4. He played a key role in the construction and opening of the new Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center in 1966.

5. Bing was known for his sharp wit and sometimes controversial decisions, which often sparked public and media attention.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Rudolf Bing

1. “Opera must be a passion, not a hobby. It must be looked upon as a mission.”

2. “The public is always right, but I am the public too.”

3. “The only way to do something in depth is to work hard. The only way to get out of a hole is to stop digging.”

4. “I have been accused of everything except being asleep at the switch.”

5. “Opera is like a husband with a foreign title – expensive to support, hard to understand, and therefore a supreme social challenge.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While exact figures are not available, Rudolf Bing’s highest net worth is estimated to have been in the range of several million dollars, largely accrued through his successful career in opera management.

Children

Rudolf Bing had no biological children, but he was deeply involved in the lives of his extended family and mentored many younger artists and managers in the field of opera.