Barbara Goldman KIERIG

Age 75 ~ Of St. Paul Passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 Originally from St. Louis, MO, Barbara earned Bachelors and Masters degrees in vocal music from the Univ. of Illinois Urbana. She studied on a Fulbright scholarship at the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria. As an opera singer, Barbara played opposite Samuel Ramey and other notable artists in productions across the US. In the 60s and 70s, she performed at the Vienna Volksoper and elsewhere throughout Austria, Germany and Italy, appearing with Reri Grist, Erich Kunz, Ileana Cortubas, and other artists. She met her husband, Russel, also a singer, at the American National Opera, and together they toured Europe. In the mid-70s she began teaching, first at Pretoria College in South Africa, then at Eastern Kentucky and Washington State University. In 1983 Barbara became a vocal music instructor at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Fluent in German and the Viennese dialect, she was the Minnesota Opera's German language coach. She was a sought-after judge of District and Regional Metropolitan Opera Auditions. Teaching was Barbara's passion. She maintained a private studio until a few months before her death. Her students vividly remember her emphasis on solid vocal technique, her practical methods, endless energy and patience, and lively personality. Her colorful, zany expressions - part of every lesson - will not be forgotten. For a few weeks each summer, Barbara lived in her beloved Vienna, visiting historical musical sites and attending concerts. She will be deeply missed by her many past and current students, colleagues and friends. She is survived by her husband, Russel of St. Paul, and son Steve, of Los Angeles. Donations can be made in Barbara's name to The Minnesota Opera, and the U of M Twin Cities School of Music, Voice/ Opera Dept. A celebration of her life will be held in June, with details TBD.