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Joan Sutherland Quotes

Powerful Joan Sutherland for Daily Growth

About Joan Sutherland

Joan Sutherland (Joan Alston Sutherland, born Joan Alston Menzies; October 7, 1926 – October 10, 2010), an Australian-born dramatic coloratura soprano, was one of the most celebrated operatic performers of the mid to late 20th century. Known for her unique vocal agility and dramatic interpretations, she was often referred to as "La Stupenda," a nod to Maria Callas's nickname, "La Divina." Born in Sydney, Australia, Sutherland showed an early aptitude for music. She began formal voice lessons at 16 under Dulcie Holland, an Australian soprano. Her professional debut came in 1952 with the Australian Broadcasting Commission. In 1954, she married barrister Richard Thomas Sutherland and took his name. In 1958, Sutherland made her Covent Garden debut as Lucia di Lammermoor, a role she would later perform over 800 times in her career. This was followed by a successful debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1962. Her international breakthrough came after performances in Verdi's "Aida" and Puccini's "Turandot," roles for which she is most famously associated. Throughout her career, Sutherland performed with the world's premier opera companies. She retired from the stage in 1980 but continued to teach and perform occasional concerts until her death in 2010. Among her significant works are "Lucia di Lammermoor," "Aida," "Turandot," "Norma," and "Tosca." Her recordings of these roles, particularly Turandot, are considered landmarks in operatic performance. Sutherland's unique voice and dramatic flair not only redefined the coloratura soprano role but also inspired a generation of opera singers worldwide.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"To sing is to live."

The quote "To sing is to live" by Joan Sutherland underscores the profound connection between expression, passion, and existence. For Sutherland, as a renowned opera singer, singing was more than just a performance; it embodied her very essence. In this context, "sing" can be interpreted as an act of creating, sharing, and embracing one's unique voice - whether that be through artistic pursuits or personal expression. Ultimately, Sutherland suggests that engaging in life fully, using our talents to express ourselves and connect with others, is what truly makes us alive - thus "singing" becomes a metaphor for living an authentic, meaningful life.

"I have a great affection for Italy and I feel quite at home there."

This quote by Joan Sutherland indicates her strong emotional connection to Italy and a sense of comfort or familiarity she feels when in that country. It suggests a profound love and affection towards Italy, which is reciprocated by her feeling "at home" there. The quote provides insights into Sutherland's personal experiences, as well as her deep cultural appreciation for Italian traditions, landscapes, or people.

"The voice is a very personal thing."

The quote by Joan Sutherland, "The voice is a very personal thing," emphasizes that one's vocal instrument is deeply rooted in their individuality. It signifies that each person's voice - its timbre, pitch, and resonance - is unique to them, much like a fingerprint. This uniqueness comes from various factors such as physiological attributes, emotional expression, cultural influences, and personal experiences. This quote captures the essence of vocal artistry, suggesting that it's not just about hitting the right notes but also about expressing oneself authentically through one's voice.

"Every singer should be able to sing anything."

Joan Sutherland's quote emphasizes that every vocalist, ideally, should have the versatility and skill to perform any style or genre of music. This statement suggests that a well-rounded singer should not be limited by specific genres but rather have the ability to adapt to and excel in various musical contexts, showcasing their range and versatility as an artist.

"Sometimes, I think people are afraid of what they don't understand, or perhaps they are just lazy." (Often associated with her opinion on modern opera productions)

This quote suggests that Joan Sutherland believes people may avoid or dismiss things they don't understand, or lack the effort to explore them further. The context here is modern opera productions, which she implies are misunderstood or misjudged by some because of a lack of understanding or unwillingness to engage with something new or complex.

Technique is the basis of every pursuit. If you're a sportsman or you're a singer or a swimmer, well that comes under sport but you have to develop a basic technique to know what you're doing at any given time.

- Joan Sutherland

Doing, Singer, Given, Sportsman

I'm somewhat horrified because I don't think the young people today even know what history is. Some of them don't' even study History at school anymore or Geography and they don't know where one place is from another.

- Joan Sutherland

Young, Study, Some, Study History

I wasn't actually trained by my mother, she said she never taught me but she was a great singer herself and I can't remember when I didn't listen to her sing and imitate her.

- Joan Sutherland

Remember When, Trained, Herself

I don't sing for anybody. I wouldn't sing for the Queen dear.

- Joan Sutherland

Queen, Sing, Anybody, Dear

I'm very happy to sing whatever I'm singing. I've always enjoyed any role I've been given at a certain time. They've all been favourites, they've all been wonderful pieces to play.

- Joan Sutherland

Play, Always, Very, Favourites

You can listen to what everybody says, but the fact remains that you've got to get out there and do the thing yourself.

- Joan Sutherland

Fact, Get, Everybody, Remains

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