Birth

:

1956 in Hollywood, CA

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Opera

 

Richard Leech was born on August 19, 1949, in Columbia, South Carolina. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a church choir director and his mother a pianist. Leech began singing in his church choir at a young age and later studied music at the University of South Carolina. After completing his studies, Leech moved to New York City to pursue a career in opera. He made his professional debut in 1975 with the New York City Opera, singing the role of Alfredo in Verdi's La Traviata. He quickly gained recognition for his powerful tenor voice and his ability to convey emotion through his singing. Throughout his career, Leech performed in many of the world's most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Paris Opera. He was particularly known for his performances in the operas of Giuseppe Verdi, singing roles such as the Duke of Mantua in Rigoletto, Radames in Aida, and Don Alvaro in La Forza del Destino. One of Leech's most memorable performances was in the Metropolitan Opera's production of Verdi's Otello in 1994. He sang the role of Cassio, and his performance was widely praised for its beauty and sensitivity. Leech also received critical acclaim for his performances in the title role of Verdi's Don Carlo and as Pinkerton in Puccini's Madama Butterfly. In addition to his work in opera, Leech was also a sought-after concert performer. He sang with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. He was particularly known for his performances of the works of Beethoven, singing the tenor solo in the composer's Ninth Symphony on many occasions. Throughout his career, Leech received many awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 1988, he was awarded the Richard Tucker Award, which is given annually to an outstanding American opera singer. He was also inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame in 1996. Leech retired from performing in 2006, but he continued to be involved in the world of classical music. He taught voice at the University of South Carolina and served as a judge for many vocal competitions. He also remained active in his community, serving on the board of directors for several arts organizations. Richard Leech passed away on October 8, 2011, at the age of 62. He was remembered by his colleagues and fans as a gifted singer and a kind and generous person. His contributions to the world of classical music will be remembered for many years to come.

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