Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Slezak, Leo

SLEZAK, LEO, an Austrian singer, born at Mährisch-Schönberg, in 1876. He early developed musical talent and when only 17 years of age made his first appearance as “Lohengrin.” He sang in Berlin in 1898 with great success, and for seven years succeeding was a member of the Vienna Opera. In 1908 he began studying with Jean de Reszke, and in the following year made a remarkable success at Covent Garden, London. This was followed by his engagement, lasting a number of years, at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. He was especially excellent in the Wagner operas and in many of the Italian operas.