May 6 — On This Day in Opera

This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on May 6, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.

1758
French composer André Grétry, known for opéras comiques such as "Richard Cœur-de-lion", was born in Liège.
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Italian composer Pietro Mascagni, known for the verismo opera
1840
Italian composer Pietro Mascagni, known for the verismo opera "Cavalleria rusticana", was born in Livorno.
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The premiere of Jacques Offenbach's opera
1868
The premiere of Jacques Offenbach's opera "La Périchole" (revised version) took place in Paris.
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1882
Birth of Georgi Atanasov, Bulgarian composer known for his operas and contributions to Bulgarian musical theater.
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1889
The opening of the Exposition Universelle in Paris featured performances that included operatic works and influenced operatic staging and production.
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1892
Death of Ernest Guiraud, French composer and music teacher, noted for writing recitatives for Bizet's 'Carmen' and Offenbach's 'The Tales of Hoffmann'.
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1947
Death of Louise Homer, American operatic contralto, one of the leading opera singers in the early 20th century.
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1961
Judy Garland performed at the Civic Opera House in Chicago, showcasing the crossover between popular music and opera venues.
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Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti made an important early stage appearance in
1961
Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti made an important early stage appearance in "La bohème" in Reggio Emilia, marking the beginning of his international career.
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