Ebe Stignani (1903-1974) was an Italian mezzo-soprano, one of the great dramatic mezzo voices of the twentieth century. She was especially admired in Verdi and bel canto repertory.

In the Pristine catalogue she appears as Adalgisa in Bellini’s Norma with Maria Callas, Nicola Rossi-Lemeni and Tullio Serafin.

Stignani’s voice was dark, firm and commanding, with a breadth of line that could stand beside the most formidable sopranos without strain. She brought grandeur and stability to the mezzo repertory.

Her page is essential among the major Italian singers. Stignani’s tone has the weight of bronze, but bronze made to breathe.