Her inaugural foray into the world of performance was as a vocalist, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey that would take her to the esteemed stages of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, where she made her concert debut.
Although her remarkable talent was widely recognized, it wasn't until 1935 that she received the opportunity to showcase her abilities on a national level. This turning point arrived when she performed at the St. Louis Sangerfest, an event that would have a profound impact on her career.
It was at this very festival that she caught the attention of renowned composer Walter Damrosch, who had previously composed the opera The Man Without a Country. Inspired by her exceptional vocal range, Damrosch rewrote the opera to include a part specifically tailored to her unique abilities.
The result was a triumphant premiere in 1937 at the prestigious New York Metropolitan Opera, where she took center stage as the leading Wagnerian soprano of the 1940s. Her impressive repertoire extended far beyond the realm of opera, as she also appeared in a select few films, penned several mystery novels, and even became a part-owner of the St. Louis Browns baseball team.
Despite her many pursuits, she never fully retired from the world of performance, making occasional appearances throughout the remainder of her life, a testament to her enduring passion for the arts.
