Meaning: The quote you've provided seems to be a statement made by the Spanish operatic soprano Victoria de los Ángeles. In this quote, she explains her intentions for studying German, emphasizing that her decision is not driven by a desire to emulate German singers. Let's explore the context behind this quote and delve into the significance of Victoria de los Ángeles in the world of classical music.

Victoria de los Ángeles, born Victoria Gómez Cima, was a highly acclaimed and influential Spanish soprano. She was born in Barcelona in 1923 and began her musical training at a young age. De los Ángeles rose to international prominence in the mid-20th century, establishing herself as one of the leading operatic sopranos of her time. Her voice was celebrated for its purity, warmth, and emotional expressiveness, and she was known for her interpretations of a wide range of operatic roles, art songs, and oratorios.

The quote you've provided sheds light on de los Ángeles' approach to her musical education and artistic development. By expressing that her decision to study German is not about imitating German singers, she underscores the importance of authenticity and individual expression in her artistry. It reflects her commitment to maintaining her unique voice and style while engaging with different musical traditions and languages.

Studying German would have been particularly significant for an opera singer of de los Ángeles' stature. German is a key language in the world of opera, as many of the most renowned operas were composed by German-speaking composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Wagner, and Strauss. Additionally, the German repertoire includes some of the most demanding and celebrated roles for sopranos, making it essential for a singer of de los Ángeles' caliber to have a strong command of the language.

De los Ángeles' dedication to language study as part of her musical development speaks to her deep commitment to the art form and her desire to fully inhabit the characters she portrayed on stage. By mastering the nuances of different languages, she was able to bring an added layer of authenticity and emotional depth to her performances.

Beyond her linguistic prowess, de los Ángeles was also known for her interpretive skills and the emotional depth she brought to her performances. Her ability to convey the subtleties of human emotion through music made her a beloved and respected figure in the world of classical music.

In addition to her operatic career, de los Ángeles was also highly regarded for her performances of Spanish art song, or "canción española." She brought a deep understanding of the poetry and musical traditions of her native Spain to her interpretations, earning praise for her sensitive and evocative renditions of works by composers such as Manuel de Falla, Enrique Granados, and Joaquín Rodrigo.

Throughout her career, de los Ángeles received numerous accolades and honors, including the prestigious Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts and the Légion d'honneur from France. Her recordings continue to be cherished by classical music enthusiasts, serving as enduring testaments to her artistry and the timeless beauty of her voice.

In conclusion, the quote you've provided offers a glimpse into Victoria de los Ángeles' artistic philosophy and her dedication to musical authenticity. Through her commitment to language study and her profound interpretations, she left an indelible mark on the world of classical music, earning a place among the most revered sopranos in history. Her legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences, ensuring that her contributions to the art form will be cherished for generations to come.