Image Courtesy: Google Doodle
Maria Tănase (25 September 1913 – 22 June 1963) was a celebrated Romanian singer and actress, often referred to as the “Queen of Romanian Folk Music.” With her powerful and emotive voice, she became an iconic figure in Romanian culture, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s music scene. Her interpretations of traditional Romanian songs touched the hearts of many and continue to be cherished today.
Early Life And Education
Maria Tănase, an iconic Romanian singer and actress, was born on September 25, 1913, in the Bucharest suburb of Cărămidarii de Jos. She was the third child of Ana Munteanu from Cârța, Sibiu, and Ion Coanda Tănase, a master gardener and florist. Her father owned a large nursery on the outskirts of Bucharest, employing women from various regions of Romania, whose folk songs deeply influenced Maria’s future career. Tănase’s educational journey began at Primary School number 11 from Tăbăcari and continued at the “Ion Heliade Rădulescu” High School. Her exposure to the rich tapestry of traditional music at a young age left a lasting impression, shaping her into Romania’s national diva, revered for her voice and charisma.
Career And Achievements
Maria Tănase is celebrated as Romania’s national diva, akin to Édith Piaf in France or Amália Rodrigues in Portugal, and is still revered as a major cultural icon of the 20th century in Romania. Her music encompassed a variety of genres, including traditional Romanian music, romance, tango, chanson, and operetta. Tănase’s influence was so profound that in 2006, she was posthumously included in the list of the 100 Greatest Romanians of all time.
Tănase’s career was marked by both challenges and triumphs. During the National Legionary State, she faced a ban from performing and had her recordings destroyed. However, she overcame these obstacles and continued to perform, even singing for soldiers on the battlefield during World War II alongside notable figures like George Enescu. Her dedication to her art was recognized with several awards, including the State Prize in 1955, and in 1957, she was honored with the “Ordinul Muncii,” “Premiul de Stat,” and the title “Artistă Emerită” for her contributions to the arts. A highlight of her career was representing Romania at the 1939 New York World’s Fair, an event that showcased her talent on an international stage. Tănase’s legacy continues to inspire, and her voice remains a timeless emblem of Romanian cultural heritage. Her passing on June 22, 1963, was mourned by many, and her funeral procession was a testament to the impact she had on her nation and the world of music. Maria Tănase’s life and work continue to be celebrated, ensuring that her contributions to music and culture will not be forgotten.
Notable Events And Milestones
Maria Tănase career, spanning nearly three decades, saw her become Romania’s national diva, celebrated for her originality, voice, beauty, and charisma. Tănase’s music encompassed traditional Romanian music, romance, tango, chanson, and operetta, reflecting the cultural richness of her country. Her father, a master gardener, exposed her to the folk songs of the female workers he employed, which deeply influenced her artistic development. Making her stage debut in 1934, she quickly rose to prominence, with her voice first broadcasted on the radio in 1938. Her representation of Romania at the 1939 New York World’s Fair, alongside notable figures like George Enescu and Constantin Brâncuşi. However, her journey was not without challenges; during the National Legionary State, she faced a ban from public performance, and her recordings were destroyed. Despite these setbacks, she continued to perform, even singing for soldiers during World War II. Post-war, Tănase’s career flourished in theatres such as the Review Ensemble Theatre and the “Constantin Tănase” Satirical and Musical Theatre.
Tănase’s contributions to society and culture were profound. She was awarded the State Prize in 1955 and honored with the “Ordinul Muncii” (The Order for Activity), “Premiul de Stat” (The State Award), and the title “Artistă Emerită” (Honoured Artist of the Republic) for her contributions to the arts. Her legacy continues to resonate, with her songs still cherished and her life story inspiring new generations. Tănase’s impact on history is evident in her elevation of Romanian music and culture to an international audience, her resilience in the face of adversity, and her embodiment of the spirit of her nation. Her death on June 22, 1963, was mourned by many, and her funeral procession was a testament to her significant place in the hearts of the Romanian people. Maria Tănase remains a symbol of cultural pride and artistic excellence, her voice a timeless echo of Romania’s soul.
Awards And Honors
- In 1955, Maria Tănase was awarded the State Prize for her contributions to the arts.
- She received the “Ordinul Muncii” (The Order for Activity) medal in 1957, recognizing her significant work.
- The same year, she was also honored with the “Premiul de Stat” (The State Award), further acknowledging her artistic achievements.
- Maria Tănase was titled “Artistă Emerită” (Honoured Artist of the Republic), a testament to her esteemed status in the Romanian cultural sphere.
- Her importance to Romanian culture was likened to that of Édith Piaf in France or Amália Rodrigues in Portugal, highlighting her national significance.
- In 2006, she was posthumously included in the list of the 100 Greatest Romanians of all time, as determined by a nationwide poll.
- Represented Romania at the New York World’s Fair in 1939, alongside notable figures such as George Enescu, Dimitrie Gusti, and Constantin Brâncuşi, which was a significant highlight of her career.
- On 25 September 2013, a Google Doodle was created to celebrate Maria Tănase’s 100th Birthday.
Additional Resources
Books:
- “Maria Tănase: o fântână pe un drum secetos” by Simona Antonescu, a book that delves into the life and legacy of Maria Tănase.
- “Maria Tănase. Artista, omul, legenda” by Stejarel Olaru, offering insights into her artistic journey and her status as a cultural icon.
Documentaries:
- “Maria Tănase – Blestem – Cine Iubeşte Şi Lasă (Târaitul Şarpelui)”, a documentary featuring the song that made her famous.
- “Maria Tănase – Mărioară de la Gorj”, showcasing her performance and impact on Romanian folklore.
- “Interviu cu Maria Tanase”, an interview that provides personal insights into her life and work.
Museums:
- While there is no specific museum dedicated solely to Maria Tănase, her contributions are likely featured in Romanian cultural and music museums. Additionally, her legacy can be explored through various exhibitions and collections that celebrate Romanian folk music and history.
