May 25 — On This Day in Opera

This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on May 25, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.

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1715

Premiere of George Frideric Handel's opera 'Amadigi di Gaula' at the King's Theatre in London.

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1726

Birth of Giuseppe Paolucci, Italian composer known for his sacred music and theoretical writings.

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1746

Birth of Isabella Mattocks, English soprano who created roles in several English operas.

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1806

Death of Barbara Gerl, Austrian soprano who created the role of Papagena in Mozart's 'The Magic Flute'.

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1825

Birth of Rosa von Milde-Agthe, German soprano who created the role of Elsa in Wagner's 'Lohengrin'.

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1849

Birth of Thomas 'Blind Tom' Wiggins, American pianist and composer known for his virtuosic performances.

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1878

Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera "H.M.S. Pinafore" opened at the Opera Comique in London.

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1917

Édouard de Reszke, Polish bass and prominent opera singer, died.

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1929

Beverly Sills, American operatic soprano especially associated with coloratura roles, was born.

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1934

Death of Gustav Holst, English composer best known for his orchestral suite 'The Planets'.

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1981

Rosa Ponselle, American dramatic soprano and major Metropolitan Opera artist, died.

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2024

Jake Heggie and Gene Scheer's one-act opera "Before It All Goes Dark" received its world premiere at the Jewish Museum in Prague.

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