Apr 12, 2022
Montserrat Caballé's 89th Birthday
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Montserrat “La Superba“ Caballé was known to have a personality that was larger-than-life—but it was the opera star’s voice that brought audiences to their feet. From her 1965 American debut at Carnegie Hall, Montserrat Caballé skyrocketed to international opera stardom and was celebrated for her distinctive bel canto vocal technique.
Born on this day in 1933 in Barcelona, Spain, much of Caballé’s youth was spent studying music and training her voice at the local liceo. After making her professional debut in Switzerland and early performances in Germany, Caballé went on to give more than 3,800 performances in over 80 roles on five continents.
Caballé’s ability to sing in multiple styles and keys opened doors to performing music ranging from Mozart to more traditional recital pieces all around the world. Her stellar career reached new heights in 1987, when she and close friend Freddie Mercury recorded “Barcelona”, the eventual anthem for the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games.
Caballé received five Grammy nominations during her career, winning the award in 1968 for Best Classical Vocal Performance. She also established Fundació Montserrat Caballé—an organization to support young talent in Barcelona—and served as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador.
Happy 89th Birthday, La Superba. Your legacy sings on.
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