Maria Lătărețu: Remembering the legendary Romanian folk singer

November 7 marks the 113th anniversary of the birth of Maria Lătărețu, a renowned Romanian folk singer often referred to as the “Nightingale of Gorj” or the “Princess of Romanian folk song.” Born Maria Borcan in 1911 in Bălcești, Gorj County, she was the 16th child in her family.

Her childhood was characterized by material hardship, requiring her to work to support her family. She developed her musical talent, which was reportedly influenced by her mother and her habit of imitating birds. By age 12, she was performing in local ensembles, and by 1927, she became the lead singer for the ensemble led by Tică Lătărețu.

Other historical events noted for November 7 include the birth of scientist Marie Curie in 1867, the Bolshevik assault on the Winter Palace in 1917, and the occupation of the Rahova fortress by Romanian troops in 1877.