May 19 — On This Day in Opera

This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on May 19, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.

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1861

Dame Nellie Melba, Australian operatic lyric coloratura soprano and one of the most famous singers of her era, was born.

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1894

First UK performance of Giuseppe Verdi's final opera, 'Falstaff', with Arturo Pessina in the title role.

Falstaff

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1911

Ravel's one-act opera "L'heure espagnole" received its world premiere at the Opéra-Comique in Paris.

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1928

Antonia Fahberg, Austrian lyric soprano associated especially with the Bavarian State Opera, was born.

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1954

Death of Charles Ives, American modernist composer known for his innovative techniques and contributions to early 20th-century music.

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2009

Nicholas Maw, composer of the opera "Sophie's Choice", died.

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2016

Ēriks Ešenvalds's opera "The Immured" received its world premiere at the Latvian National Opera.

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