Irena Santor | |
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Born | Irena Wiśniewska 9 December 1934 Papowo Biskupie, Poland |
Occupation(s) | Singer, actress |
Years active | 1949–2021 |
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Irena Wiśniewska-Santor (Polish pronunciation: [iˈrɛna sanˈtɔr]; born 9 December 1934), known professionally as Irena Santor, is a Polish singer, musical performer and actress.
Her career started in 1950. She's noted for singing in clear mezzo-soprano, considered one of Poland's biggest icons and is referred to as an influence for younger singers. From 1951 to 1959 Irena Santor (then Wiśniewska) was a member and the main soloist of the Polish folk group Mazowsze, with whom she toured all continents. After leaving the group she decided to start a solo career. She has been awarded many prizes in Poland and abroad.
Irena Santor made her acting debut in Stanisław Bareja's film Przygoda z piosenką (1968). She appeared in many TV and radio shows and sat on juries for a number of talent shows and song competitions. The singer also recorded soundtracks to Polish and Soviet films.
In 2017, as the first singer in Poland, she was awarded an honorary doctorate for her accomplishments.
In 2021, she announced that she ended her professional career.