Marcella Sembrich (1858–1935) gained the attention of Wieniawski and Liszt. She decided to continue her musical career as a soprano, however, and studied singing in Milan with Francesco Lamperti. Following her operatic début in 1877, she achieved great successes at London’s Covent Garden and New York’s Metropolitan Opera. Renowned for her penetrating interpretations and exquisite taste, her artistry was admired by Brahms, Joachim, Clara Schumann, Verdi and Puccini. This 2-CD set of Sembrich’s 1904–08 Victor recordings features all the published records and a number of previously unpublished items. As well as solo arias from operas by Mozart, Bellini, Verdi, Thomas, Gounod and Lehar, there are duets and ensembles with Emma Eames, Emilio de Gogorza and Enrico Caruso. Lieder by Schubert, Schumann and Strauss are also included, as well as songs by Chopin in which the diva accompanies herself on the piano.