Lillian Nordica as the Bayreuth Elsa, ca. 1894
Item 17288 info
Nordica Memorial Association
Shortly after Lillian arrived in Bayreuth in 1894 to perform in Lohengrin, Cosima Wagner, widow of the opera's composer, Richard Wagner, said of Nordica, "Her voice, intelligence, capacity for expression are extraordinary, and I hope for the very best."
Seigfried Wagner, son of Richard and Cosima, wrote: "About Madame Nordica I can tell you the most pleasing things. ... With an artist of her talent and of her reputation it is really touching to watch with what indefatigable zeal she dedicates herself to the perfection of her role."
Of her debut in Lohengrin, Lillian wrote to her Aunt Lina, "Well, when the day arrived, the opera fitted like an old glove and I was not at all nervous, but I kept my mind on my business. ... I felt that the eye of the musical world was upon me and that the stars and stripes were in my keeping and must be brought forth in victory."
Her performance was a critical success as well.
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