| Biography | Gessendorf, Mechthild (b Munich, 1937). Ger. soprano. Member of Vienna Chamber Opera from 1961, then sang in Bremen and Bonn opera cos. Joined Bavarian State Opera, Munich, singing Strauss roles such as the Empress and Marschallin, also Aida, Elisabeth (Don Carlos), and in The Turn of the Screw. Salzburg Fest. début 1982; Bregenz 1983; Amer. (Tulsa) 1983; Met 1986; CG 1987. London concert début 1989. Sang Wagner and Strauss roles in most Eur. opera houses and fests. |