Josephine Barstow (born 2 May 1943) is a British operatic soprano noted for her versatile repertoire, spanning both the standard lyric canon and contemporary works. She has performed with major opera houses and orchestras worldwide and has made an extensive discography of recordings and broadcasts.
Early life and education
Barstow was born in London, England. She began her musical studies at the Royal Academy of Music, where she received vocal training under teachers such as Sidney Harrison and Joan Cross. She later pursued further studies in Italy, refining her technique and language skills.
Career
Debut and early engagements
Barstow made her professional debut in 1966 as the First Lady in Mozart’s The Magic Flute at Glyndebourne Festival Opera. Shortly thereafter, she joined the English National Opera (ENO) as a resident artist, quickly establishing herself in a range of roles.
Signature roles
She is especially associated with the title role in Richard Strauss’s Arabella, the Queen of the Night in Mozart’s The Magic Flute, and the demanding soprano part of Sophie in Richard Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier. In the 1970s and 1980s, Barstow expanded into contemporary repertoire, creating roles in works by composers such as Michael Tippett and Hans Werner Henze.
International appearances
Barstow has performed at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden; the Metropolitan Opera, New York; La Scala, Milan; the Opéra National de Paris; and the Salzburg Festival, among others. Her concert appearances include recitals of German Lieder, English art songs, and orchestral works.
Recordings
Her discography includes recordings of operas such as Die Entführung aus dem Serail (as Konstanze), Moses und Aron (as Miriam), and a complete recording of The Rake's Progress under the baton of Sir John Barbirolli. She has also released solo albums of arias and song cycles.
Awards and honors
Barstow was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1990 for services to music. She has received the Royal Philharmonic Society Award and honorary fellowships from both the Royal Academy of Music and the Royal College of Music.
Later career and teaching
Since retiring from full‑time stage work, Barstow has been active as a masterclass instructor and adjudicator in vocal competitions. She holds a visiting professorship at the Royal Academy of Music, where she mentors emerging singers.
Personal life
Barstow is married to the conductor Sir Charles Mackerras (deceased 2010). She resides in London and continues to be involved in charitable activities supporting music education.