Kiri remembers Joan Sutherland

Posted on 22 October 2010 | 6 Comments

When I arrived in London in 1966, Joan Sutherland was already a star. In her earlier days she had appeared in the small role of the maid to Maria Callas’ s ‘ Norma’ and was barely noticed. But not long after, when Joan sang Lucia de Lammermoor she stunned the audience - and became famous overnight. People who heard her in that role still talk about it.

By 1960 she had sung an amazing performance at the Fenice theatre in Venice… and during interval a British journalist heard two Italians refer to her as “ La Stupenda.” The journalist reported this to London in his review - which was published with the headline “ Sutherland- La Stupenda.” She was known by that term ever since. 

And of course she was often referred to as a true diva. ‘ Diva’ actually means ‘ goddess’ - and that’ s exactly how all we young students at the London opera Centre thought of her - as a goddess. 

During those early days, I was lucky enough to be auditioned by Joan’ s husband Richard Bonynge - and it was he and Joan who encouraged me to regard my voice as soprano, instead of mezzo. Because their opinion turned out to be right, I am ever grateful to both. Some years later I sang with her myself, on the recording of ‘ The Beggars Opera’ with Joan, Angela Lansbury, and Alfred Marks. 

She continued to conquer the world of opera worldwide and becoming a Dame added to her lustre. But by 1990 Joan had decided to slow down a bit, and she withdrew from the lead in a gala production of “ Die Fledermaus” at Covent Garden. This opened up a question.. who would replace her?

The invitation went to New Zealand - to Malvina Major, who came to London that Christmas for her Covent Garden debut, to replace Joan Sutherland. Joan and her husband were very encouraging - and even came to Malvina’ s opening night then went backstage afterwards to congratulate her.  

Joan once told an interviewer: “ I just feel pleased that people are happy to come and listen to me sing.” For over 30 years they certainly were happy to come and hear her. 

She was unflinching in her own professional attitude, but always ready with encouragement towards other singers. Joan Sutherland was a generous, friendly and honest woman - besides being the most spectacular soprano I’ ve ever heard. 

We shall not see her like again. 

( pic - Kiri Te Kanawa, Joan Sutherland and Angela Lansbury, recording “ The Beggars

Opera.”