Judith Nelson

Baroque and Classical Era Soprano Soloist

Judith Nelson was an American soprano who specialized in Baroque music and was particularly renowned for her performances in the works of composers such as Handel and Purcell. Born on December 17, 1939, in Evanston, Illinois, she developed a passion for early music and became one of the leading figures in the historical performance movement. Throughout her career, she collaborated with eminent ensembles and conductors dedicated to historically informed performances. Nelson's clear voice and stylistic understanding made her a sought-after artist for both live performances and recordings during the 1970s and 1980s. She worked with groups like the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and the Academy of Ancient Music, contributing to the revival of interest in Baroque opera and oratorio. Nelson's contributions to early music have been widely appreciated, and she has left a lasting impact on the field through both her performances and recordings.