Joan Sutherland, a celebrated Australian born soprano, passed away peacefully last weekend at her home near Geneva, according to a released statement from her family. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Sutherland was nicknamed “La Stupenda” (the Stupendous One) by her Italian fans, for her unforgettable performances. She was also praised by the late tenor Luciano Pavarotti, who called her the “greatest coloratura soprano of all time” for her great range and skillful trills, at her farewell gala recital in 1990 in London. The family statement noted that Sutherland is survived by her husband conductor Richard Bonynge, their son Adam, daughter-in-law Helen, and two grandchildren.
