Teresa Stratas

Born

1938-05-26

Birthplace

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Biography

Teresa Stratas, born in Toronto's Cabbagetown, started her musical journey singing Greek songs in her parents' restaurant. Her talent led to radio performances and a Royal Conservatory scholarship. At 20, she debuted in La Bohème at the Toronto Opera Festival and became a renowned figure at the Metropolitan Opera, captivating audiences globally. Notably, she made history performing dual lead soprano roles at the Met in 1995. Her illustrious career includes performances at prestigious opera houses worldwide. Stratas notably sang the title role in the premiere of Alban Berg's Lulu at the Paris Opera in 1979. She's been honoured with the Order of Canada and the Governor General's Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Performing Arts. Stratas holds five honorary degrees and is known for her vibrant personality, disdain for snobbery, and her eight-year involvement with conductor Zubin Mehta. Her passion for life is evident in her zest for both its joys and complexities.