Emmi Leisner (1885-1958) was a German contralto, admired in Wagner, oratorio and song. She was one of the important German lower-voice singers of the early twentieth century.

In the Pristine catalogue she appears in Wagner’s Ring excerpts and related early recordings, alongside major singers of the period.

Leisner’s voice was deep, steady and expressive, with the gravity required by Wagner and the seriousness needed for concert repertory. She brought dark colour without dullness.

Her page is justified by stature and repeated catalogue presence. Leisner gives the early Wagner shelf a contralto foundation stone.