Tauber (Seiffert), Richard

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Tauber [Seiffert], Richard (b Linz, 1892; d London, 1948). Austrian-born tenor, conductor, and composer (Brit. cit. 1940). Début Chemnitz 1913 (Tamino in Die Zauberflöte). Dresden Opera 1913–22; Berlin Opera 1915; Vienna Opera 1922–8, 1932–8; Salzburg Fest. début 1922; Berlin State Opera 1923–33; CG 1938–9 (but had often sung in Eng. before then in operettas); Amer. début (NY recital) 1931. Superb Mozart and Lieder singer, also known for his perfs. in operetta, especially those of Lehár, whose work he first sang in Vienna 1922 (Frasquita). Wrote musicals, e.g. Old Chelsea. Made last appearances in NY March 1947 and at CG autumn 1947, singing Ottavio in Don Giovanni with colleagues of Vienna Opera on their visit to London although he had serious lung trouble which led to his death a few months later.

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