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Iconic Australian singer dies after 40-year career: ‘She won the hearts of audiences’

BBG News

The Australian opera world is deeply saddened by the passing of beloved mezzo-soprano singer, Rosemary Gunn.

A Scottish-born vocalist relocated to Australia during his youth and enthralled audiences for over four decades.

1972 saw Gunn joining Opera Australia, where her robust voice, dominating stage presence, and exceptional adaptability quickly established her as a permanent feature on the nation’s grandest opera platforms.

Her passing was confirmed by Opera Australia. 

The statement starts by expressing condolences as we say goodbye to Rosemary Gunn, who touched the hearts of everyone over a 40-year career, whether they were her colleagues or members of the audience.

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She was highly esteemed as part of Opera Australia’s leading performers, and her vocal abilities spanned a broad spectrum of musical compositions.

A flood of tributes has come in following the death of the long-time entertainer, who retired from performing in 2008.

Devastating news! A marvelous entertainer, truly a master of her craft. Rosemary was consistently gracious towards the up-and-coming young vocalists. This was expressed by one of her friends online.

‘She was a wonderful coworker, always thoughtful and a pleasure to collaborate with. She rarely spoke negatively about anyone, if at all. Farewell, dear friend.’

‘She was an outstanding colleague, kind-hearted and easy to work alongside. She never uttered any unkind words about others. Goodbye, dearest soul.’

Opera Australia described Gunn as a highly skilled artist, dedicated team member, and cherished companion. Her dedication to both the company and the artistic field persisted strongly even beyond her last performance.

As a cherished part of Opera Australia’s Principal ensemble, Gunn triumphed in the final round of the Metropolitan Opera Auditions held in Honolulu and also won the Sydney Sun Aria competition in 1977.

These achievements helped cement her reputation as one of the nation’s most accomplished voices.

Throughout her illustrious career, she performed alongside several distinguished opera artists from both Australia and New Zealand who are widely recognized for their exceptional talent.

They included Anthony Warlow and Dame Joan Sutherland. 

Behind the limelight, she was renowned for her warmth, her commitment to fostering upcoming artists, and her profound affection for her cherished pet dog.

Or,

Off-stage, she was admired for her warmth, her dedication to mentoring budding talents, and her deep love for her treasured canine companion.

Or,

Backstage, she was appreciated for her warmth, her passion for developing new artists, and her deep affection for her beloved pooch.

She is survived by her husband, Graeme Williams, a veteran chorister with Opera Australia.

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2025-07-15 09:35

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