Opera low note: Soprano Angela Gheorghiu files for divorce from tenor Roberto Alagna

Soprano Gheorghiu files for divorce from Alagna

NEW YORK — Soprano Angela Gheorghiu and tenor Roberto Alagna are ending their marriage on a low note.

Gheorghiu (gee-or-GEE’-you) says she has started divorce proceedings against Alagna (a-LAN’-ya), whom she married on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera in April 1996 — with then New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani presiding.

“Angela Gheorghiu wishes to emphasize that she has been separated from Roberto Alagna for the last two years,” said a statement posted Saturday on her Web site.

“Her attempts to save the marriage in this period failed. Having initiated divorce proceedings months ago, she awaits the finalization of their divorce as soon as possible. Ms. Gheorghiu understands that Mr. Alagna is bitter about this situation. As for her part, contrary to his declarations, she would like to live her life now with peace and tranquillity.”

The couple lived in Switzerland. She did not say where the divorce proceedings were filed.

An e-mail message sent to Alagna’s assistant was not immediately returned Tuesday.

In August, Gheorghiu withdrew from the first six performances of the Met’s new production of Bizet’s “Carmen,” which opens New Year’s Eve. She had been scheduled to sing with Alagna in those performances, including the Jan. 16 matinee set for simulcast to theaters around the world.

She still intends to sing Carmen at the Met on April 28 and May 1.

Mezzo Elina Garanca (e-LEE’-na Ga-RAN’-cha) will replace Gheorghiu in the other performances.

On the Net:

www.angelagheorghiu.com/news/2009/oct/10/statement/