“The World’s Most Beautiful Woman“ / Soprano Lina Cavalieri ~ Mari, Mari (1910)

Italian soprano Lina Cavalieri (1874-1944) / Mari, Mari (Di Capua) / Recorded: February/March 1910 -- Some observers, aware of the abundant documentation regarding her physical beauty, will also attest to her vocal artistry.... but I shall leave that up to you! Most should find the footnote far, far below of good, comic interest! Italian operatic soprano Lina Cavalieri (December, 25, 1874 - February 7, 1944), known for her great beauty. Born Natalina Cavalieri in Viterbo, Latium, Italy, she lost her parents at the age of fifteen and became a ward of the state, sent to live in a Roman Catholic orphanage. The vivacious young girl was extremely unhappy under the strict raising of the nuns, and at the first opportunity she ran away with a touring theatrical group. Blessed with a good singing voice, a young Cavalieri made her way to Paris, France, where her stunning good looks opened doors and she obtained work as a singer at one of the city’s café-concerts. From there she performed at a variety of musi