User:Lchyluis 57/Josefa Cruz de Gassier

Josefa Cruz de Gassier, better known as La Gassier (Bilbao, 1821- Madrid, 1870) was a soprano from Bilbao who achieved great success in her time. She made her debut in London when she was only 25 years old, and she paraded the name of Bilbao on stages around the world (France, Spain, United Kingdom, United States, Cuba...). Her success was such in America that the Cuban musician Manuel Saumell composed a contradanza for her that bears her name.

Josefa de Gassier, known after marrying the French baritone Louis Gassier, lived a life of harmony and international recognition. Educated in Italy under the tutelage of Pasini, she debuted in London in 1846 as Elvira at her Majesty's Theatre. Recognized for her rare and versatile sfogato soprano voice, the Gassiers sang together throughout Europe between 1849 and 1854, later being hired by the Théâtre Italien in Paris. Her career was brilliant, performing in prominent theaters in Europe and America and even being honored with a contradanza composed by Manuel Saumell. Joséfa was a leader on stage, highlighting her Bilbao origin and her vocal dominance.