| Born in Chambly, Quebec, lyric soprano Dame Emma Lajeunesse Albani was the first Canadian artist to achieve international acclaim in the world of opera, oratorio and concert singing. She was the favourite singer of Queen Victoria and sang at the Queen's funeral. After studying in Paris and Milan, she made her debut in Messina, Italy, in 1870. She then embarked on a career which took her to the world's most famous opera houses. By the time she retired in 1896, she had sung 43 leading roles. Her voice has been preserved on a Rococo 5255 record. PA-127289 |