When did Australian mezzo-soprano singer Rosemary Gunn start her career? Opera community in mourning as singer dies 

Scottish-born singer Rosemary Gunn has passed away. The news was announced by Opera Australia on their social media through the statement:

"Vale Rosemary Gunn. Over a four decade career with, she won the hearts of both colleagues and audience. She was a valued member of Opera Australia's Principals and was an excellent singer in a wide range of repertoire."

Gunn started her career with The Australian Opera in 1972. The singer worked with the company for over forty years, leaving behind a legacy and her talent in the industry.

While her talent was much appreciated by her fans, Gunn's last professional appearance was at Lucia di Lammermoor with José Carbó and Emma Matthews. The singer then decided to retire.

Some of Gunn’s most notable roles included Alisa in Lucia di Lammermoor, Cornelia in Giulio Cesare, and Bianca in The Rape of Lucretia.

Acknowledging her achievements, the statement by Opera Australia read:

"In 1977, won both the Pan Pacific Final of the Metropolitan Opera Auditions in Honolulu and the Sydney Sun Aria."

It continued:

"Her devotion to our company and the artform was evident in the regular phone conversations she and I shared over many years — always eager to learn of the development of young singers and the company itself. Rosemary was totally devoted to her baby Dachshund Ela. Rosemary's passing this week brings great sadness that we have lost a very fine talent, company member and friend."

Even after retiring from the stage, she stayed connected to opera by serving on the judging panel for the Joan Sutherland and Richard Bonynge Bel Canto Award.

The opera community remembers Rosemary Gunn following her passing

After the news was announced by Opera Australia, fans and members of the opera community have been remembering the late singer through heartfelt messages on Opera Australia's Facebook post.

A user, Anne-Maree McDonald, wrote:

"Loved Rosie, she was kind, funny and talented. Vale dear soul 🤍🤍🤍"

Another friend, Nicole Youl, wrote,

"Terribly sad news! A wonderful performer and an absolute pro. Rosemary was always kind to the younger singers coming on. A quiet and generous colleague who went about the business without great fanfare."

Gunn's colleague, David Foley, wrote:

"Such sad news. She was the loveliest colleague, considerate and easy to work with. She was very quiet and I never heard her speak an ill word of anybody. RIP dear one."

Another friend, Fiona Maconaghie, added:

"Oh no. .. so very sad to hear the news . A wonderful colleague , singer and a dear friend to me when I first sang with the company .Vale Rosemary Gunn"

One more friend, Bernadette Cullen, wrote,

"Dear Rosie, terribly sad news, shocked to hear it. She was a beautiful singer and wonderful dedicated artist. A lovely colleague and friend, loved by so many of us. Bless her, may she rest in peace. Bernie 😥😘"

The opera industry is mourning the loss of Rosemary Gunn. While tributes continue to pour in, the reason behind her passing has not yet been revealed.

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