Kiri Te Kanawa Quotes

A collection of quotes by Kiri Te Kanawa.

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, born on March 6, 1944, is a renowned New Zealand opera singer. Born as Claire Mary Teresa Rawstron in Gisborne, New Zealand, she adopted the Maori name Kiri Te Kanawa in her early career. With a talent for singing discovered in her childhood, Te Kanawa pursued her passion and went on to study at the London Opera Centre.

Te Kanawa rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of the most celebrated sopranos of her time. Known for her powerful yet velvety voice and exquisite interpretations, she has graced the stages of major opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and La Scala in Milan.

Among her many remarkable performances, Te Kanawa is perhaps best known for her portrayal of Mozart's Countess Almaviva in "The Marriage of Figaro" and Puccini's Mimi in "La Bohème." Throughout her career, she collaborated with leading conductors and artists, leaving an indelible mark on the opera world.

Te Kanawa's talent extended beyond the realm of opera, as she also showcased her vocal skills in popular repertoire, musical theatre, and crossover recordings. Her solo albums achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, introducing her captivating voice to a wider audience.

Recognized for her contributions to music, Kiri Te Kanawa was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1982. Today, she remains an iconic figure in the opera industry, and her legacy continues to inspire aspiring singers around the globe.