Birgit Nilsson with Placido Domingo backstage at the Metropolitan Opera after “La Traviata” in 1981

Birgit Nilsson and Plácido Domingo first sang together in New York at the Metropolitan Opera on February 15, 1969 in a matinee production of Tosca. Nilsson remarked that "Plácido acquitted himself splendidly. He was an incredibly good Cavaradossi, his acting was superb — he was the part, he loved the part and on top there was gorgeous singing."

A collegial recognition of Birgit’s artistry was evident during a television interview several years ago when Plácido Domingo was asked what musical recordings he cherished most – he answered, "One of my all-time favorites is ‘In questa reggia’ sung by Birgit Nilsson but the recording cannot compare to the sound I heard when singing with her."