Known as the Swedish Nightingale, Johanna Maria Lind transitioned from her early debut at the Royal Swedish Opera to become a global figure, later dedicating her efforts to music education and significant charitable contributions.
Early Development and Training
Born in 1820 in the Klara Church Parish of Stockholm, Lind displayed vocal talent at a young age. She gained admission to the Royal Dramatic Training Academy as a child. Her initial success followed her 1838 performance as Agathe in Der Freischütz. After suffering vocal damage due to overuse, she underwent specialized training in Paris with Manuel García between 1841 and 1843, which restored her voice and established her technical foundation.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →European Operatic Career
By 1844, Lind began a series of high-profile engagements throughout Germany and Austria, influenced by the composer Giacomo Meyerbeer. Her repertoire spanned numerous major roles, including Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor and Adina in L'elisir d'amore. During this period, she established a professional association with Felix Mendelssohn. She became a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Music in 1840, having already served as court singer to the King of Sweden and Norway.
American Tour and Later Life
In 1850, Lind accepted an invitation from P. T. Barnum to perform in the United States, completing 93 large-scale concerts. She donated the substantial proceeds to charitable causes, including the endowment of free schools in Sweden. Following her marriage to Otto Goldschmidt, she moved to England in 1855. In her final years, she served as a professor of singing at the University of London. She died in 1887 and was buried in the Great Malvern Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Full name: Johanna Maria Lind
- Lifespan: 1820–1887
- Birthplace: Klara Church Parish, Sweden
- Primary occupations: Opera singer, music educator
- Notable role: Agathe in Der Freischütz
- American tour concerts: 93
- Final teaching post: University of London
- Burial site: Great Malvern Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of Jenny Lind's 1850 American tour?
The tour, managed by P. T. Barnum, consisted of 93 concerts and earned her over $350,000, which she primarily donated to establish free schools in Sweden.
Why did Jenny Lind stop performing in opera?
She announced her retirement from the opera stage at the age of 29 following two acclaimed seasons in London, though she continued to give occasional concerts for several decades.
Achievements
- Affiliated with University of London
- Worked as actor, opera singer and music educator
.jpg)
