Sumi Jo

Emerging in the closing years of the twentieth century as a prominent new coloratura soprano on the global opera scene, Sumi Jo was first brought to attention by the German maestro Herbert von Karajan, known for his theatrical flair. Her early fame received a boost from visual media as well, thanks to a featured appearance the conductor secured for her in the video production titled "Karajan in Salzburg."

Born during 1962 in Seoul, South Korea, Sumi Jo pursued studies in both singing and piano during her childhood years. She left Seoul National University in 1983, heading instead to Rome to enroll at the Accademia di Santa Cecelia. Her instructors there included Carlo Bergonzi along with Grannila Bonelli. Upon completing her studies in 1985, she had focused on keyboard instruments in addition to vocal training. Subsequently, she captured leading prizes in vocal competitions across multiple nations, which drew Karajan's notice. Her first opera performance occurred in 1986 when she took the part of Gilda in Verdi's Rigoletto. In 1988, she appeared in Un Ballo in Maschera, this time directed by Karajan himself. Throughout the decade of the 1990s, she performed widely, appearing in principal cities across almost all continents. A Grammy came her way in 1993. Particularly acclaimed among her extensive discography are the various times she has interpreted the demanding role of Mozart's Queen of the Night from Die Zauberflöte. During the 1999-2000 season, Sumi Jo undertook an extensive tour through Australia and the Far East where she was born, with intentions to revisit New York and recreate her initial Rigoletto portrayal.