May 22 — On This Day in Opera

This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on May 22, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.

1811
Birth of Giulia Grisi, Italian soprano renowned for her performances in operas by Bellini and Donizetti.
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Richard Wagner, composer of
1813
Richard Wagner, composer of "Der Ring des Nibelungen", "Tristan und Isolde", "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg", and "Parsifal", was born.
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1872
The foundation stone of the Bayreuth Festspielhaus was laid; Wagner conducted Beethoven's Ninth Symphony at the Margravial Opera House for the occasion.
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1879
Birth of Jean Cras, French composer and naval officer known for his opera 'Polyphème'.
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1925
James King, American heldentenor associated especially with Wagner and Strauss roles, was born.
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1949
Hans Pfitzner, composer of the opera "Palestrina", died.
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