| Quick Info | |
|---|---|
| Name | Frederica von Stade |
| Date of Birth | June 1, 1945 |
| Profession | Musician |
| Place of Birth | Somerville |
| Home Town | Massachusetts |
| Country | United States |
| Awards | Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences; National Medal of Arts; Officer of Arts and Letters |
| Institute | Far Hills Country Day School; Mannes College The New School for Music |
| Father | Charles Steele von Stade |
| Mother | Sara Worthington Clucas |
| Spouse | Peter Elkus |
| Childrens | Jenny Rebecca Elkus, Lisa Elkus |
Early Life and Education
Frederica von Stade, affectionately known as Flicka, was born on June 1, 1945 in Somerville, Massachusetts. She grew up in a musical household, with her father, Charles Steele von Stade, being an amateur singer and her mother, Sara Worthington Clucas, a music lover. Von Stade’s passion for music was evident from a young age, and she began studying piano and voice at an early age.
After attending Far Hills Country Day School, von Stade went on to study at Mannes College The New School for Music in New York City. It was here that she honed her vocal skills and developed a deep appreciation for opera and classical music. Her talent and dedication quickly caught the attention of her professors and peers, setting the stage for her future success.
Rise to Fame
Von Stade’s career took off in the early 1970s when she made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Her performance as Cherubino in Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” received critical acclaim, establishing her as a rising star in the opera world. She went on to perform in leading roles in operas by composers such as Handel, Rossini, and Massenet, captivating audiences with her powerful voice and emotive performances.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, von Stade’s career continued to soar as she performed at renowned opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Vienna State Opera. Her versatility as a singer allowed her to excel in a wide range of repertoire, from Baroque to contemporary works, earning her a reputation as one of the most versatile mezzo-sopranos of her generation.
Notable Achievements
Over the course of her career, von Stade has received numerous accolades and awards for her contributions to the world of music. She has been honored with multiple Grammy nominations and has won several prestigious awards, including the National Medal of Arts and the Opera News Award. Her recordings have garnered critical acclaim and have solidified her reputation as a leading interpreter of art song and opera.
In addition to her success on the opera stage, von Stade has also made a name for herself as a concert artist and recitalist. She has collaborated with some of the most esteemed musicians in the industry, including conductors Leonard Bernstein and James Levine, pianist Emanuel Ax, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Her performances have been praised for their emotional depth and musicality, earning her a devoted following of fans around the world.
Personal Life
Despite her demanding career, von Stade has always prioritized her family life. She married Peter Elkus, a businessman, in 1976, and together they have two daughters, Jenny Rebecca Elkus and Lisa Elkus. Von Stade has spoken openly about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her career, but she credits her family for providing her with love and support throughout her journey.
Von Stade’s upbringing in a musical household has had a profound impact on her as a musician and as a person. She has often cited her father’s love of singing as an inspiration for her own musical pursuits, and she continues to honor his memory through her performances. Her mother’s unwavering support has also been instrumental in shaping von Stade’s career, instilling in her a sense of discipline and dedication that has carried her through the highs and lows of the music industry.
Net Worth 2024
As of 2024, Frederica von Stade’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. The source of her wealth primarily comes from her successful career as an opera singer and concert artist. Von Stade’s earnings have been generated through her performances at prestigious opera houses, concert halls, and recording studios around the world. Additionally, she has received royalties from her numerous recordings and collaborations with other musicians.
Summary
Frederica von Stade’s musical journey from Somerville to international stardom is a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for music. Her rise to fame on the opera stage, her notable achievements, and the impact she has had on the world of music are all testaments to her enduring legacy as one of the most beloved mezzo-sopranos of our time.
Through her powerful voice, emotive performances, and unwavering commitment to her craft, von Stade has touched the hearts of audiences around the world and has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her personal life, marked by love and support from her family, has provided her with the strength and inspiration to continue pursuing her musical dreams.
As we look towards the future, it is clear that Frederica von Stade’s influence will continue to resonate with music lovers for generations to come. Her timeless artistry and profound musicality serve as a reminder of the transformative power of music and its ability to connect us all in ways that transcend language and culture.