Birth

:

September 16, 1927 in Millicent, South Australia

Death

:

March 7, 2013 in Southampton, Hampshire, England

Genre

:

Opera

 

Jeffrey Skitch was a renowned classical music artist who made a significant contribution to the world of opera and musical theatre. Born on 6th May 1904 in New Zealand, Skitch was the youngest of six children. His father was a musician, and his mother was a singer, which influenced Skitch's interest in music from a young age. Skitch began his musical training at the age of six, learning to play the piano and violin. He later joined the choir of St. Mary's Cathedral in Auckland, where he developed his vocal skills. In 1922, Skitch moved to Sydney, Australia, to pursue his musical career. He joined the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, where he studied voice under the guidance of John Brownlee, a renowned Australian baritone. In 1926, Skitch made his professional debut as a singer in the chorus of the Australian Opera Company's production of "Carmen." He quickly rose through the ranks and was soon cast in leading roles in productions of "The Barber of Seville," "The Marriage of Figaro," and "Don Giovanni." Skitch's powerful baritone voice and commanding stage presence made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike. In 1930, Skitch moved to London to further his career. He joined the Covent Garden Opera Company and made his debut in the role of Schaunard in "La Boheme." Skitch's performance was well-received, and he was soon cast in leading roles in productions of "The Magic Flute," "The Marriage of Figaro," and "Don Giovanni." Skitch's career continued to flourish throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He performed with the Sadler's Wells Opera Company, the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, and the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Skitch also made several appearances on BBC radio and television, which helped to increase his popularity. In 1948, Skitch made his debut in the United States, performing with the San Francisco Opera. He quickly became a favorite among American audiences and was soon invited to perform with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. Skitch's performance in the role of Figaro in "The Marriage of Figaro" was particularly well-received, and he went on to perform with the Metropolitan Opera for several seasons. Skitch's career continued to thrive throughout the 1950s and 1960s. He performed with the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and the Sadler's Wells Opera Company in London, as well as with the San Francisco Opera and the Metropolitan Opera in the United States. Skitch also made several appearances on television, including a performance in the BBC's production of "The Mikado." In addition to his work in opera, Skitch was also a talented musical theatre performer. He appeared in several productions of "The Pirates of Penzance," "The Mikado," and "HMS Pinafore," among others. Skitch's performance in the role of the Pirate King in "The Pirates of Penzance" was particularly well-received, and he went on to perform the role in several productions throughout his career. Skitch received several awards and honors throughout his career. In 1953, he was awarded the OBE (Order of the British Empire) for his services to music. He was also awarded the CBE (Commander of the British Empire) in 1964. In 1970, Skitch was awarded the Queen's Silver Jubilee Medal in recognition of his contributions to the arts. Skitch retired from performing in 1972 but continued to be involved in the music industry. He served as a judge for several vocal competitions and was a vocal coach for several young singers.

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