1796
Death of Italian soprano Caterina Gabrielli ("La Cochetta"), one of the leading virtuosas of 18th-century opera.
February 16 — On This Day in Opera
This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on February 16, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.
1892
World premiere (first performance) of Massenet’s "Werther" at the Vienna Court Opera (Hofoper).
1895
World premiere (first performance) of Mascagni’s "Guglielmo Ratcliff" at Teatro alla Scala (Milan).
1922
Birth of Welsh bass-baritone Sir Geraint Evans, celebrated for major roles in operas such as "Falstaff" and "Le nozze di Figaro".
1939
Birth of South African dramatic soprano Marita Napier, acclaimed in Wagner and Strauss roles.
1975
Death of American bass-baritone Norman Treigle, a prominent singing-actor closely associated with New York City Opera.