American soprano, 1897 - 1981
Biographical notes: She was born in the United States to Italian parents. Her real name was Rosa Ponzillo. She sang
in American film theatres and cabarets opposite her sister Carmela (a mezzo) as the “Ponzillo Sisters.” The Met Impresario Gatti-Casazza was so impressed that he immediately invited her to
the Met. Caruso was enthusiastic about her, and she made her early debut in the presence of the tenor star in 1918! She became the first American-born artist to sing a major role at the Met
without the benefit of prior European training or experience. She was born with a natural gift for singing and acting. The performances with Caruso brought her world-wide fame. She enjoyed
extraordinary success in a variety of roles (no Puccini and Wagner!). She was also a guest star at the opera houses of Chicago and Covent Garden. She had also a brilliant career as a
concert-singer. For private reasons she retired from the opera stage at the age of 39. In 1954 she made recordings at her home (Villa Pace). Her voice was still in superb condition.
Studio pose, 1918 “I think we all know that Ponselle was simply the greatest singer of us all!” Maria Callas
As Norma
“I have encountered three miracles - Enrico Caruso, Tita Ruffo and Rosa Ponselle...” Tullio Serafin
As Leonora in “La Forza del Destino”
“In playing her records, I find myself repeatedly commenting: This is ultimate perfection!” Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
As Rachel in Halévy’s “La Juive”
“There are two singers you must put aside, one is Enrico Caruso, the other is Rosa Ponselle. Then you may begin to discuss all the others!” Geraldine Farrar
As Gioconda
“She turned into the purest gold everything she touched. We shall never hear her like again...” Walter Legge
Studio pose, 1918
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