Mimi Coertse

Maria Sophia "Mimi" Coertse, born June 12, 1932, in Durban, South Africa, was a notable soprano known for her contributions to classical music and opera. She began her vocal training under Aimée Parkerson in South Africa before studying in Europe, including London, Den Haag, and Vienna. Mimi Coertse's breakthrough came in 1955 with her performance as Zerbinetta in Ariadne auf Naxos at the Schlosstheater Schönbrunn. At 23, she became the youngest permanent ensemble member of the Wiener Staatsoper, debuting as the Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute. Throughout her career, Mimi Coertse performed roles such as Konstanze in Die Entführung aus dem Serail and Violetta Valéry in La Traviata. She was awarded the title of Austrian Kammersängerin in 1966. She died in Pretoria, South Africa, on April 27, 2026, at the age of 93.