Leonie Rysanek: Puccini - Tosca, ’Vissi d’arte’

Leopoldine “Leonie“ Rysanek (14 November 1926 – 7 March 1998) was an Austrian dramatic soprano. Rysanek was born in Vienna and made her operatic debut in 1949 in Innsbruck. In 1951 the Bayreuth Festival reopened and the new leader Wieland Wagner asked her to sing Sieglinde. He was convinced that her unique, young and beautiful voice, combined with her rare acting abilities, would create a sensation. She became a star overnight, and the role of Sieglinde followed her for the rest of her career... Lyrics & English Translation I lived for art, I lived for love, I never did harm to a living soul! With a secret hand I relieved as many misfortunes as I knew of. Ever in true faith My prayer Rose to the holy shrines. Ever in true faith I gave flowers to the altar. In the hour of grief Why, why, Lord, Why do you reward me thus? I gave jewels for the Madonna’s mantle, And songs for the stars, in heaven,