July 22 — On This Day in Opera

This page lists notable events in opera history that happened on July 22, including world premieres, composer births, deaths, and important milestones.

1847
World premiere of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera *I masnadieri* at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London, conducted by the composer.
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1886
Death of Austrian bass‑baritone Emil Scaria, notable for originating the role of Gurnemanz in Wagner’s *Parsifal*.
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1909
Birth of Italian-American soprano Licia Albanese, renowned for her interpretations of lyric Verdi and Puccini roles at the Metropolitan Opera.
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1933
Caterina Jarboro became the first Black prima donna of a U.S. opera company when she sang the title role in *Aida* at the Metropolitan Opera House.
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