ABSTRACT
Australian soprano, born Catherine Mary (“Molly”) Ryan in Combanning Station. She studied in Australia, London, and Paris. Her acclaimed debut was in London in 1902, sharing the program with Adelina Patti. She gave a command performance. Then she sang in concerts with John McCormack; both made their U.S. debuts at the St. Louis Exposition in 1904, and they toured the U.S. in 1909-1911. Narelle became known as the “Queen of Irish Song.” She began to record for Edison in September 1905, with “Killarney” (#9081; later as Amberol #495), making cylinders and Diamond Discs until 1914. Later she worked for Pathé, singing “Dear Old Honolulu” (#20134; 1916); she may have also recorded under the name Marie Ryan. Her last stage appearances were in 1931. Narelle died in Chipping Norton, England. [Walsh 1964/2-3.]
SEE COUNTRY MUSIC RECORDINGS
An American record of 1906, masters from Imperial, pressed by the Leeds and Catlin Co., sold by Macy’s department store. A record player named Nassau was also available through Macy’s. [Andrews 1984/12.]
SEE KING RECORDS
