May 17 — On This Day in Opera

This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on May 17, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.

1866
Birth of Erik Satie, French composer and pianist known for his influential works that bridged the late Romantic and early modern eras.
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Mascagni's
1890
Mascagni's "Cavalleria rusticana" received its world premiere at the Teatro Costanzi in Rome.
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1890
Premiere of Pietro Costanzi's opera 'Rustic Chivalry' in Rome.
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1906
Zinka Milanov, Croatian dramatic soprano and major Metropolitan Opera artist, was born.
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1918
Birgit Nilsson, Swedish dramatic soprano celebrated for Wagner and Strauss roles, was born.
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1929
Lilli Lehmann, German operatic soprano known especially for Wagner roles, died.
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1934
Strauss's "Arabella" received its United Kingdom debut at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.
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1935
Paul Dukas, composer of the opera "Ariane et Barbe-bleue", died.
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