Rosa Ponselle
1897–1981 (age 84)
operatic soprano
Biography
Born in 1897, Rosa Ponselle rose from a musical household to become one of America’s most beloved operatic sopranos, captivating audiences with a lush, expressive voice and a commanding stage presence that graced the Metropolitan Opera and stages around the world.
Even after retiring from performance, she nurtured young singers as a mentor and teacher, leaving behind a treasured legacy of recordings and cherished memories among colleagues; she rests at Druid Ridge Cemetery, where her artistry continues to be honored.