Horne, Marilyn (1934-…), was an American opera star known for her wide vocal range and technical agility. At the beginning of her long career, she sang soprano as well as mezzo-soprano roles. Horne became famous for her performances in operas composed in the Italian bel canto style, which emphasizes beautiful tones and technical skill. She sung roles in operas written by such composers as Vincenzo Bellini, Gaetano Donizetti, and Gioachino Rossini.
Horne was born on Jan. 16, 1934, in Bradford, Pennsylvania. She made her operatic debut in 1954 with the Los Angeles Guild Opera in The Bartered Bride. Horne first sang with the Metropolitan Opera in 1970 in Norma. She retired from performing in 2000.
