Barbara Maier Gustern facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Barbara Maier Gustern
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Maier Gustern in 1963
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| Born |
Barbara Joan Maier
February 10, 1935 Boonville, Indiana, U.S.
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| Died | March 15, 2022 (aged 87) New York City, U.S.
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| Alma mater | DePauw University Columbia University |
| Occupation | Vocal coach, singer |
Barbara Joan Gustern (born Barbara Joan Maier on February 10, 1935 – died March 15, 2022) was a talented American vocal coach and singer. She taught many famous students, like Blondie singer Debbie Harry, Taylor Mac, Justin Vivian Bond, Diamanda Galás, and Kathleen Hanna.
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About Barbara Gustern's Life
Barbara Joan Maier grew up in Boonville, Indiana. Her parents were Charles E. Maier and Gladys Hester Maier. She studied at DePauw University, earning a bachelor's degree. Later, she earned a master's degree in psychology from Columbia University. She worked in psychology for a short time before she started performing in musicals.
Early Career and Marriage
Barbara met her future husband, Josef Donald Gustern, while she was singing at the Conservative Synagogue Adath Israel of Riverdale. They got married on July 27, 1963, at her parents' home in Indiana. In August 1964, Barbara and her husband performed together in a play called The Threepenny Opera.
Becoming a Vocal Coach
When Barbara was 40 years old, she began teaching at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. She became a very well-known vocal coach. Many of her students became famous singers and performers. Some of her notable students included Blondie singer Debbie Harry, Taylor Mac, Justin Vivian Bond, Diamanda Galas, and Kathleen Hanna.
Later Years and Legacy
On March 10, 2022, Barbara Gustern was injured near her apartment building in Chelsea, Manhattan. She passed away from her injuries five days later, on March 15, at the age of 87. Barbara Gustern is remembered for her amazing talent as a vocal coach and for helping many students achieve their dreams in music.
