Berberian, Cathy (1925–1983)

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Berberian, Cathy (1925–1983)

American singer and composer. Born Catherine Berberian, July 4, 1925, in Attleboro, Massachusetts, of Armenian parentage; died Mar 6, 1983, in Rome, Italy; attended Columbia University and New York University (1942–43); m. Luciano Berio (composer and teacher of music), 1950 (div. 1966).

Known for her agile soprano voice and striking stage presence, was married to composer Luciano Berio, who wrote many works for her, including Circles (1960), Sequenza III (1963) and Recital (1971); inspired other composers to write pieces for her, including John Cage, Stravinsky and Henri Pousseur; performed works from a variety of musical styles, from Monteverdi to Lennon-McCartney; also composed music, including Stripsody (1966) and Morsicat(h)y (1971) for piano.