Betty Boije facts for kids
Betty Natalie Boije af Gennäs (born February 14, 1822 – died November 14, 1854) was a talented singer and composer from Finland. She was known for her beautiful alto voice, performing in both operas and concerts. Betty was also one of the first noblewomen in her region to become a professional stage performer.
Early Life and Family
Betty was one of eight children. Her father, Klas Otto Boije af Gennäs, was a nobleman from Sweden who worked in the customs office in Pori, Finland. Her mother was Marianna Horn af Rantzien. Betty's sister, Wilhelmina Boije, was also a musician, known as a pianist.
A Rising Star in Music
Betty Boije began her singing career with a concert in Turku, Finland, in 1847. She studied music with the Swedish composer Isidor Dannström from 1847 to 1848. After her studies, she went on a successful tour, performing in cities like Turku, Helsinki, Reval (now Tallinn), and Saint Petersburg.
In 1849, Betty made her debut in Stockholm, Sweden. She then joined the Royal Swedish Opera as an opera singer from 1850 to 1851. People praised her amazing alto voice. She was especially loved for her role as Nancy in the opera Martha. She performed this role so well that audiences wanted to see her play it again and again!
Even with her success in opera, Betty decided to leave the stage. She preferred to return to being a concert singer. She performed in many countries, including Finland, Denmark, and Norway.
Tours and Later Life
In 1853, Betty married her former teacher, Isidor Dannström. Together, they went on a concert tour with Betty's sister. They traveled to Great Britain and the United States from 1853 to 1854.
Betty was very successful in London, where she performed with another famous singer, Louise Michaëli. In the United States, she sang in cities like Washington and New York. Sadly, after her performance in New York, Betty became ill. They had to stop their tour and return to Sweden. Betty passed away not long after they arrived home.
A Pioneer in Her Time
Besides being a singer, Betty Boije was also a composer, meaning she wrote her own music.
It was quite unusual for a noblewoman like Betty to work as a professional performer during her time. Many people thought it wasn't a suitable job for someone from a noble family. However, even though her father was a nobleman, he wasn't wealthy. Betty and her sister, Wilhelmina, both supported themselves through their artistic talents. Betty Boije was truly a pioneer, breaking new ground for women in the arts.
