What were Richard Tauber's birth name, birth date, and birthplace?

Richard Tauber was born Richard Denemy on May 16, 1891, in Linz, Austria-Hungary. Linz is a city in Austria, and Austria-Hungary was a dual monarchy that existed in Central Europe from 1867 to 1918.

Who were Richard Tauber's parents, and what was their relationship status?

Richard Tauber's parents were Elisabeth Seifferth (née Denemy), a soubrette actress, and Richard Anton Tauber, an actor. They were not married at the time of Richard's birth, and his father was reportedly unaware of his son's existence as he was touring North America.

What is the discrepancy regarding Richard Tauber's middle name or alternative names mentioned in the source?

While the *Encyclopædia Britannica* suggested Richard Tauber might have been known as Ernst Seiffert, the provided source indicates this claim is not supported by biographical books about him. He was named Richard Denemy at birth, sometimes known as [Carl] Richard Tauber, and also used his mother's married name, Seiffert.

How did Richard Tauber's legal name change after his father's involvement?

After being adopted by his father in 1913, Richard Tauber's legal name became Richard Denemy-Tauber. This adoption formalized his paternal connection and name.

What was Richard Tauber's early upbringing like, and where did he live as a child?

Initially, Richard Tauber accompanied his mother on theatrical tours. However, she eventually left him with foster parents in Urfahr, a suburb of Linz. Later, his father took responsibility for his upbringing, moving him through various cities including Graz, Prague, Berlin, Salzburg, and Wiesbaden.

What were Richard Tauber's father's religious background and aspirations for his son?

Richard Tauber's father was born Jewish but had converted to Roman Catholicism. He had hoped that his son would pursue a career as a priest. However, Richard was drawn to the theater and ultimately pursued a singing career instead.

Why did Richard Tauber initially struggle to impress singing teachers, and what did he study at the Hoch Conservatory?

Richard Tauber initially struggled to impress singing teachers because he chose to audition with Wagnerian repertoire, which was unsuitable for his voice at the time. His father then enrolled him at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt, where he studied piano, composition, and conducting, making rapid progress but remaining set on becoming a singer.

When and where did Richard Tauber make his public debut as a singer?

After receiving intensive vocal training from Carl Beines, Richard Tauber made his public debut in a concert in Freiburg im Breisgau on May 17, 1912. This marked the beginning of his professional singing career.

How did Richard Tauber secure his debut in Mozart's 'The Magic Flute'?

In 1913, Richard Tauber's father was appointed Intendant of the Municipal Theater in Chemnitz. This position allowed him to arrange Tauber's debut in the role of Tamino in Mozart's opera *The Magic Flute* on March 2, 1913.

What was Richard Tauber's connection to the Dresden Opera, and what nickname did he earn?

Nikolaus Count von Seebach of the Dresden Opera offered Tauber a five-year contract after attending his performance as Max in *Der Freischütz* in 1913. Tauber's ability to quickly master difficult roles, such as learning Gounod's *Faust* in 48 hours and Richard Strauss's Bacchus in *Ariadne auf Naxos* overnight, earned him the nickname "the SOS Tenor."

Describe Richard Tauber's remarkable ability to learn roles quickly, as evidenced by the 'SOS Tenor' nickname.

Richard Tauber was renowned for his exceptional speed in learning operatic roles. He famously mastered Gounod's *Faust* in just 48 hours and learned the role of Bacchus in Richard Strauss's *Ariadne auf Naxos* overnight. This incredible aptitude for rapid learning led to him being nicknamed "the SOS Tenor."

How did Richard Tauber rescue the German premiere of Puccini's 'Turandot'?

In 1926, Richard Tauber stepped in to save the German premiere of Puccini's opera *Turandot* at the Staatsoper Dresden. He learned the demanding role of Calaf in just three days after the originally cast tenor, Curt Taucher, fell ill.

When and where did Richard Tauber make his debut at the Vienna State Opera?

Richard Tauber made his debut at the Vienna State Opera on June 16, 1920, performing in *La bohème*. He stepped into the role as a replacement for Alfred Piccaver, who was indisposed.

What was Richard Tauber's typical performance schedule between the Vienna State Opera and the Berlin State Opera?

From 1922 onwards, Richard Tauber held contracts with both the Vienna State Opera and the Berlin State Opera. He typically divided his time between these two prestigious companies, spending four months with each, while dedicating the remaining months to concerts, guest appearances, and international tours.

What range of operatic and modern works did Richard Tauber perform?

Richard Tauber performed tenor roles in numerous classic operas, including Mozart's *Don Giovanni*, Smetana's *The Bartered Bride*, Puccini's *Tosca*, Adam's *Mignon*, Gounod's *Faust*, Bizet's *Carmen*, and Strauss's *Die Fledermaus*. He also appeared in more contemporary works like Erich Korngold's *Die tote Stadt* and Wilhelm Kienzl's *Der Evangelimann*.

According to Daniel O'Hara's chronology, how many roles did Richard Tauber perform in opera and operetta?

According to Daniel O'Hara's comprehensive Richard Tauber Chronology, Richard Tauber performed over 100 different roles across opera and operetta throughout his career. This highlights the breadth of his repertoire and performance experience.

When did Richard Tauber begin making gramophone records, and for which labels?

Richard Tauber made his first gramophone record in June 1919. He went on to make over seven hundred recordings, all produced for the Odeon Records label, and from 1933 onwards, for the associated Parlophone label.

Describe the vocal qualities that made Richard Tauber's tenor voice renowned.

Richard Tauber's tenor voice was celebrated for its lyrical quality, flexibility, and warm, elegant legato. His exceptional breath control allowed him to produce a superb head voice, a remarkable *messa di voce* (the ability to swell and diminish volume on a single note), and exquisite *pianissimo* (very soft) passages.

How did Richard Tauber use a monocle, and what effect did it have on his stage presence?

Richard Tauber had a slight squint in his right eye, which he cleverly camouflaged by wearing a monocle. This accessory, often paired with a top hat, contributed to his distinctive and sophisticated stage presence, enhancing his elegant appearance.

What was Richard Tauber's initial involvement with operettas, and how did it impact Franz Lehár's career?

Richard Tauber first performed in an operetta by Franz Lehár, *Zigeunerliebe*, in 1920. His successful performance in Lehár's *Frasquita* at the Theater an der Wien in 1922 was a significant event. Although some critics initially disapproved, Tauber's venture into operetta revitalized Lehár's career and introduced Tauber to a new audience.

Which operettas did Franz Lehár compose specifically for Richard Tauber?

Franz Lehár composed several operettas with roles tailored specifically for Richard Tauber's voice and performance style. These include *Paganini* (1925), *Der Zarewitsch* (1927), *Friederike* (1928), *The Land of Smiles* (1929), *Schön ist die Welt* (1930), and *Giuditta* (1934). The popular hit songs from the second acts of these works became informally known as *Tauberlieder*.

In what capacity did Richard Tauber contribute to the film 'I Kiss Your Hand, Madame'?

Richard Tauber appeared in the 1929 film *I Kiss Your Hand, Madame*. Although the film itself was silent, Tauber provided a 'voice-over' performance, singing the title song.

Describe Richard Tauber's first marriage and subsequent relationship with Mary Losseff.

Richard Tauber married soprano Carlotta Vanconti on March 18, 1926, after meeting her in Vienna in 1924. They separated and divorced in Berlin later the same year, though the divorce was only legally recognized in Germany. In 1929, Tauber met Mary Losseff, with whom he lived for about five years; he composed the operetta *Der singende Traum* for her and remained her lifelong friend and supporter.

What incident in 1933 led Richard Tauber to leave Germany?

In 1933, Richard Tauber was attacked in the street by Nazi Brownshirts due to his Jewish ancestry. Following this assault, he made the decision to leave Germany and relocate to his native Austria.

When did Richard Tauber leave Austria, and why did he become stateless?

Richard Tauber continued to perform at the Vienna State Opera until the *Anschluss* (the annexation of Austria by Nazi Germany) in March 1938. After leaving Austria, the Nazi government withdrew the Taubers' passports and right of abode, rendering them technically stateless and prompting Tauber to apply for British citizenship.

Who was Diana Napier, and what was her connection to Richard Tauber's career?

Diana Napier was an English actress whom Richard Tauber met in April 1935 at the premiere of his film *Mimi*. After Tauber secured an Austrian divorce from his first wife, he married Napier on June 20, 1936. Napier subsequently appeared in three of his British films: *Heart's Desire* (1935), *Land Without Music*, and *Pagliacci* (both 1936).

What was Richard Tauber's operatic debut in London, and when did he leave Germany permanently?

Richard Tauber made his London operatic debut in *Die Zauberflöte* in 1938, conducted by Sir Thomas Beecham. He had left Germany permanently earlier that year following the *Anschluss*.

Why did Richard Tauber remain in the UK during World War II, and how did he earn a living?

Despite lucrative offers from the United States, Richard Tauber stayed in the UK throughout World War II. With limited opera performances available in wartime Britain, he supported himself by singing, conducting, making gramophone records, and participating in radio broadcasts. He also composed English operettas, such as *Old Chelsea*, with lyricist Fred S. Tysh.

How did Richard Tauber's arthritis affect his recording process, and what solution was implemented?

In his later years, Richard Tauber suffered from severe arthritis, which made it difficult for him to move towards and away from the microphone to adjust volume for softer and louder notes. To overcome this, recording engineers constructed a small trolley on wheels, allowing them to silently move him back and forth during sessions.

What was the outcome of Richard Tauber's Broadway appearance in 'Yours is my Heart'?

Richard Tauber's appearance in the 1946 Broadway adaptation of *The Land of Smiles*, titled *Yours is my Heart*, was unsuccessful. The production flopped, resulting in significant personal financial losses and leaving Tauber indebted to the investors.

Describe Richard Tauber's final public performance.

Richard Tauber's last performance was on September 27, 1947, at the Royal Opera House in London. He sang the role of Don Ottavio in Mozart's *Don Giovanni* with the Vienna State Opera during their visit. Although a relatively small part, it included two demanding arias that require excellent breath control. Witnesses reported he sang wonderfully, receiving significant applause, and surviving recordings show a steady tone and good musical line, despite some phrasing limitations.

When and where did Richard Tauber die, and what was the cause?

Richard Tauber died on January 8, 1948, at the London Clinic in Devonshire Place, London, England. His death was due to complications following surgery to remove his left lung, which was part of his treatment for lung cancer. He was 56 years old.

Where is Richard Tauber buried, and what was the location of his Requiem Mass?

Richard Tauber was interred in Brompton Cemetery in London. His Requiem Mass was held at St. James's Church, Spanish Place, in London.

What is the approximate number of vocal recordings Richard Tauber made, and what labels were involved?

Richard Tauber made over 720 vocal recordings throughout his career. These recordings were primarily produced for the Odeon Records label and, from 1933 onwards, for the associated Parlophone label.

Beyond vocal recordings, what else did Richard Tauber record as a conductor?

In addition to his extensive vocal recordings, Richard Tauber also conducted orchestral recordings. These primarily featured his own compositions, but also included music by composers like Edvard Grieg and Johann Strauss, Jr.

What types of music were featured in Richard Tauber's acoustic and electrical recordings?

Richard Tauber's 120 acoustic recordings included arias by composers such as Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Kienzl, as well as songs by Schumann, Richard Strauss, and Grieg. His electrical recordings featured albums of German folksongs, Schubert's *Winterreise* (accompanied by Mischa Spoliansky), and folksongs by Franz Gabriel and Hermann Löns.

Which specific recordings are considered particularly prized among Richard Tauber's discography?

Among Richard Tauber's recordings, four Mozart arias recorded between 1938 and 1939, and an aria from *Der Freischütz* made in 1946, are highly valued. His final recordings included two songs by Richard Strauss, accompanied by pianist Percy Kahn.

What were some of Richard Tauber's most popular recordings, particularly those from his later career?

During his lifetime, Richard Tauber's recordings of music by Franz Lehár, much of which was composed specifically for him, were bestsellers. His own songs from the operetta *Old Chelsea*, along with a wide array of lighter and popular music in both German and English, also achieved significant commercial success.

What preserved broadcasts by Richard Tauber are mentioned in the source?

Several of Richard Tauber's broadcasts have been preserved, including a series of General Motors Concerts from America in 1937, a concert from Radio Hilversum in 1939, and excerpts from his three series of weekly programs for the BBC between 1945 and 1947.

What was Richard Tauber's role in the film 'The Land of Smiles' (1930)?

Richard Tauber starred in the 1930 film adaptation of *The Land of Smiles*. This film was one of several musical films he appeared in during his career.

What is the significance of the image of Richard Tauber on a cigarette card?

The source material includes an image of Richard Tauber depicted on a cigarette card. Cigarette cards were small, collectible cards often included in packs of cigarettes, frequently featuring portraits of celebrities or historical figures.

What is the significance of the image showing Richard Tauber and Carlotta Vanconti?

The source material references an image of Richard Tauber and Carlotta Vanconti, dated around 1928. Carlotta Vanconti was Tauber's first wife, whom he married in 1926 and divorced in 1928.

What does the image of Richard Tauber's gravestone signify?

The source material includes an image of Richard Tauber's gravestone located in Brompton Cemetery, London. This visually marks his final resting place.

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section at the end of the article?

The 'Authority control' section provides links to various international and national databases that catalog information about Richard Tauber. These databases, such as ISNI, VIAF, GND, and Library of Congress, help to uniquely identify and organize information about him across different systems and collections.

What does the Wikimedia Commons link in the 'External links' section offer?

The link to Wikimedia Commons provides access to various media files related to Richard Tauber. This typically includes photographs, audio recordings, or other multimedia content associated with the artist.

What information can be found via the Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) link for Richard Tauber?

The Internet Broadway Database (IBDB) link provides specific information about Richard Tauber's involvement in Broadway productions. This database focuses on theatrical performances in New York City, detailing cast, crew, and production history.

What is the purpose of the 'Das Richard Tauber Archiv' link?

The link 'Das Richard Tauber Archiv' leads to a website dedicated to Richard Tauber, primarily in German. This site also hosts an English-language chronology of his life and career, compiled by Daniel O'Hara, which was archived on the Wayback Machine.

Richard Tauber Wiki: The Golden Tenor: Richard Tauber's Melodious Journey

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A Life in Music

Early Beginnings

Born Richard Denemy on May 16, 1891, in Linz, Austria-Hungary, Richard Tauber was the son of actress Elisabeth Seifferth and actor Richard Anton Tauber. His parents were unmarried, and his father was unaware of his birth. Initially named Richard Denemy, he was later adopted by his father in 1913, legally becoming Richard Denemy-Tauber. His father, of Jewish heritage but converted to Catholicism, hoped for a priestly career for his son, but Richard's passion for the theater led him to pursue music instead.

Musical Education

Tauber's early attempts to study singing were met with discouragement, as his choice of Wagnerian repertoire was unsuitable for his developing voice. His father enrolled him at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt to study piano, composition, and conducting. Despite excelling in these areas, Tauber remained steadfast in his ambition to become a singer, eventually undertaking intensive vocal training under Carl Beines.

Navigating Identity

Tauber's life was marked by his dual heritage and the turbulent political landscape of Europe. Born in Austria-Hungary, his Jewish ancestry later led to persecution by the Nazi regime. This forced him to flee Germany in 1933 and later Austria after the Anschluss in 1938. He eventually sought British citizenship, becoming stateless during World War II before finally settling in the UK.

The Operatic Stage

Debut and Dresden

Tauber made his public debut in Freiburg on May 17, 1912. His father, now Intendant of the Municipal Theater in Chemnitz, arranged his operatic debut as Tamino in Mozart's The Magic Flute on March 2, 1913. His talent quickly caught the attention of Nikolaus Count von Seebach of the Dresden Opera, leading to a contract and a reputation for remarkable speed in learning roles, earning him the nickname "the SOS Tenor."

Vienna and Berlin

Following guest appearances, Tauber made his Vienna State Opera debut in June 1920. He subsequently signed contracts with both the Vienna State Opera and the Berlin State Opera, dividing his time between them and international concert tours. He performed a wide array of tenor roles in operas by Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, and others, mastering over 100 roles throughout his career.

Vocal Prowess

Tauber's voice was characterized by its lyrical quality, warm tone, and exceptional flexibility. Renowned for his elegant legato, remarkable breath control, and exquisite pianissimo, he possessed a superb head voice. His sophisticated stage presence, often enhanced by a monocle, contributed to his distinctive and charming persona.

Operetta's Champion

Lehár's Muse

Tauber's venture into operetta, particularly with Franz Lehár, proved immensely successful. His performance in Lehár's Frasquita in 1922 revitalized the composer's career. Lehár subsequently wrote several operettas with roles specifically tailored for Tauber, including Paganini, Der Zarewitsch, Friederike, The Land of Smiles (featuring the iconic aria "Dein ist mein ganzes Herz"), Schön ist die Welt, and Giuditta. The popular songs from these works became known as "Tauberlieder."

London Success

Tauber made his London debut in operetta in 1931, and these performances became a regular feature of his career. His ability to connect with audiences through the charming melodies of operetta cemented his international fame beyond the classical opera stage.

A Voice Preserved

Extensive Discography

Richard Tauber recorded extensively throughout his career, amassing over 720 vocal recordings primarily for Odeon and Parlophone labels. His recordings spanned operatic arias, operetta numbers, art songs, and popular music. His interpretations of works by Lehár, Mozart, and his own compositions were particularly celebrated.

Early Recordings (Acoustic): Arias by Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Kienzl; songs by Schumann, Richard Strauss, Grieg; duets with Elisabeth Rethberg and Lotte Lehmann; excerpts from Korngold's Die tote Stadt.
Electrical Recordings: Albums of German folksongs, Schubert's Winterreise (with Mischa Spoliansky), folksongs by Franz Gabriel and Hermann Löns.
Prized Recordings: Four Mozart arias (1938-39), aria from Der Freischütz (1946), final recordings of two Richard Strauss songs (with Percy Kahn).
Bestsellers: Numerous recordings of Franz Lehár's music, his own songs from Old Chelsea (1942), and lighter popular music in German and English.
Broadcasts: Preserved broadcasts include General Motors Concerts (1937), Radio Hilversum (1939), and BBC programs (1945-47).

On the Silver Screen

Cinematic Appearances

Tauber also graced the silver screen, appearing in several films primarily in Germany and later in England. He provided the singing voice for the title song in the otherwise silent film I Kiss Your Hand, Madame (1929). His filmography includes notable titles such as The Land of Smiles (1930), Heart's Desire (1935), and Pagliacci (1936), often featuring his musical talents.

Reise-Abenteuer (1925) [short silent]
Achtung! Aufnahme! (1927) [short silent]
I Kiss Your Hand, Madame (1929)
Never Trust a Woman (1930)
End of the Rainbow (1930)
The Land of Smiles (1930)
The Big Attraction (1931)
Melody of Love (1932)
Blossom Time (1934)
Heart's Desire (1935)
Land Without Music (1936)
Pagliacci (1936)
Waltz Time (1945)
Lisbon Story (1946)

Wartime and Beyond

Exile and Resilience

Fleeing Nazi persecution, Tauber settled in London. Despite the challenges of wartime Britain, which saw limited opera performances, he continued to perform, conduct, and record. He composed English operettas, including Old Chelsea, which produced the popular song "My Heart and I." His later years were significantly impacted by severe arthritis, requiring innovative recording techniques to accommodate his condition.

Broadway Setback

In 1946, Tauber's attempt to bring The Land of Smiles to Broadway as Yours is my Heart resulted in significant personal financial losses. This necessitated extensive touring across North and South America to recoup the debts, a demanding undertaking given his declining health.

Final Curtain

A Lingering Illness

Returning to London in April 1947, Tauber sought medical treatment for a persistent cough. He was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite his condition, he accepted an invitation to perform one final time with the Vienna State Opera in London, singing Don Ottavio in Don Giovanni on September 27, 1947. Reports indicate a performance of remarkable quality despite the physical toll.

Passing and Legacy

Tauber entered Guy's Hospital for treatment shortly after his final performance and passed away on January 8, 1948, at the London Clinic. His Requiem Mass was held at St. James's Church, Spanish Place, and he was interred in Brompton Cemetery, London. His voice and the music he brought to life continue to resonate, preserving his legacy as one of the 20th century's most beloved tenors.

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References

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The Golden Tenor

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Life in Music 🎶

👶 Early Beginnings

🎓 Musical Education

🌍 Navigating Identity

The Operatic Stage 🎭

🌟 Debut and Dresden

🎤 Vienna and Berlin

✨ Vocal Prowess

Operetta's Champion 🎵

🎼 Lehár's Muse

🇬🇧 London Success

A Voice Preserved 💽

🔊 Extensive Discography

On the Silver Screen 🎬

🎞️ Cinematic Appearances

Wartime and Beyond 🇬🇧

✈️ Exile and Resilience

💔 Broadway Setback

Final Curtain ⚰️

😔 A Lingering Illness

🕊️ Passing and Legacy

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Life in Music

Early Beginnings

Musical Education

Navigating Identity

The Operatic Stage

Debut and Dresden

Vienna and Berlin

Vocal Prowess

Operetta's Champion

Lehár's Muse

London Success

A Voice Preserved

Extensive Discography

On the Silver Screen

Cinematic Appearances

Wartime and Beyond

Exile and Resilience

Broadway Setback

Final Curtain

A Lingering Illness

Passing and Legacy

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice