Éva Gauthier

Éva Gauthier, born on September twentieth, eighteen eighty-five, was a distinguished Canadian-American mezzo-soprano and voice teacher. Throughout her illustrious career, she became renowned for her performances of contemporary compositions, notably introducing the works of celebrated composers such as Erik Satie, Maurice Ravel, and Igor Stravinsky to American audiences. Among her notable achievements was her role in the American premiere of Stravinsky's 'Perséphone', which showcased her exceptional vocal talent.

With the support of prominent patrons like Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Zoé, Lady Laurier, and Lord Strathcona, Gauthier honed her craft in Europe before embarking on a transformative journey to Java. For four years, she immersed herself in the rich tapestry of native music, which she later brought back to North America, enriching the musical landscape with her unique insights and experiences.

After retiring from the stage in nineteen thirty-seven, Gauthier established a voice studio in New York City. Her commitment to the arts extended beyond teaching; she became a founding member of the American Guild of Musical Artists and actively participated on its board of governors. Her contributions to music were widely recognized, and in nineteen forty-nine, the Campion Society of San Francisco honored her for her open-mindedness and enthusiasm, which played a pivotal role in the recognition of many vital modern composers.