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Jussi Björling

THE GREATEST TENOR OF ALL TIME

In February, 1911, a child was born to the Björling family in Borlänge. They called him Jussi. His singing voice was like no other - many claim he was the greatest tenor of all time. He was only 19 when he made his début at the Stockholm Opera as Don Ottavio in Mozart’s Don Juan. His breakthrough came the following year when he appeared at the Tivoli in Copenhagen. The critics were unanimous in their praise and the first step towards an international career had been taken. At the Metropolitan, la Scala, Covent Garden the Vienna Opera, Chicago and San Fransisco - everywhere Jussi Björling was a brilliant star. Those who heard him sing in any of his major roles - Rigoletto, Tosca, Aida, La Bohème or Faust, for instance - will never forget the experience.

The world became a bit more silent when Jussi Björling died one late summer day in 1960, but thanks to a large number of sound and gramophone recordings, we can still listen to his voice. His records still sell; interest in his music not only stands the test of time but is even growing.

A must for those wishing to study the life and career of Jussi Björling is a visit to the Jussi Björling Museum in Borlänge, where stage costumes, personal belongings, paintings, original posters, photos and an extensive collection of recordings and many other objects are on view.

  •  The Jussi Björling Museum opened in 1994 in conjunction with the international ”Jussi Björling Tenor” competition in Borlänge.
  •  Among other exhibits on view in the museum is the costume worn by Caruso as the duke in Rigoletto. It was presented to Jussi Björling by Caruso’s widow.
  •  Jussi Björling is buried in the churchyard at Stora Tuna a couple of miles from the centre of Borlänge.

www.borlange.se/kommun/jussi/