“Singing Like A Nightingale” Many singers in the 19th century were referred to as nightingales, the most famous one being Jenny Lind – the “Swedish nightingale.” There are many examples in both published and unpublished material from the 19th century that attest to the fact that labeling a singer a nightingale was the highest possible praise. But what does this label actually mean? Exactly what is required to earn the distinction of being called a nightingale? Through an exploration of 19th-century German literature, we shall see the incredible richness and complexity of the nightingale metaphor as applied to singers. Although the metaphor is rarely used nowadays, the characteristics of ”˜singing like a nightingale’ are still valued among singers, teachers of singing, critics, and audience members. Supported by the Carrigan Lecture Fund