1809
Death of Joseph Haydn, Austrian composer known as the 'Father of the Symphony' and 'Father of the String Quartet', who also contributed significantly to the development of opera.
May 31 — On This Day in Opera
This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on May 31, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.
1854
Death of Vatroslav Lisinski, Croatian composer of the first Croatian opera 'Love and Malice' (1846).
1874
Birth of Attilio Parelli, Italian composer and conductor known for his opera 'I dispettosi amanti' and for being the first to broadcast a full opera on Italian radio.
1875
Birth of Italo Montemezzi, Italian composer known for his opera 'L'amore dei tre re' (The Love of the Three Kings).
1884
Premiere of Giacomo Puccini's first opera, 'Le Villi', at the Teatro Dal Verme in Milan.
1905
Death of Franz Strauss, German horn virtuoso and composer, and father of Richard Strauss.
1931
Birth of Shirley Verrett, American mezzo-soprano opera singer celebrated for her versatility and powerful performances.