Helge Roswaenge (1897 - 1972)

Born in Copenhagen in 1897, Helge Roswaenge was one of the most popular and beloved tenors of this century. He was largely self-taught, taking only a few lessons with a local singing teacher which he combined with listening to records of his great idol, Enrico Caruso. He was known as 'The Knight of the High D'. In 1951 he received the Gold Ring of the Vienna State Opera Gallery. Birgit Nilsson is the only other singer to have received this tribute, a sign of sincere gratitude for an unforgettable contribution to opera.