Elms, Lauris (1931–)

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Elms, Lauris (1931–)

Australian mezzo-soprano. Name variations: Lauris Margaret Elms, Mrs. Lauris Margaret Elms de Graaf. Born Oct 20, 1931, in Melbourne, Australia; studied in Paris; children: Deborah de Graaf (clarinetist).

Made debut at Covent Garden in Verdi's Un Ballo in Maschera (1957) and became principal resident artist there; appeared with leading Australian companies and is renowned for portrayal of Azucena in Verdi's Il Trovatore; toured Australia with Joan Sutherland (1965) and appeared at opening of Sydney Opera House (1973); appeared with all leading Australian companies; made many acclaimed recordings and frequent radio broadcasts and gave regular lieder recitals with pianist Geoffrey Parsons.

See also The Singing Elms: The Autobiography of Lauris Elms (Bowerbird, 2001).