Birth

:

April 12, 1924

Death

:

January 23, 2020

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Opera

 

Franz Mazura was a German bass-baritone opera singer and actor, born on December 14, 1924, in Augsburg, Germany. He was known for his powerful voice and his ability to portray complex characters on stage. Mazura's career spanned over five decades, during which he performed in some of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Mazura's love for music began at an early age. He started singing in a church choir when he was just six years old. He later studied music at the Augsburg Conservatory and the Munich Academy of Music. During World War II, Mazura served in the German army, but he was captured by the Americans and spent two years as a prisoner of war. After the war, Mazura resumed his music studies and made his professional debut in 1948 at the Augsburg Opera House. He quickly gained recognition for his powerful voice and his ability to portray complex characters. In 1951, he joined the Bavarian State Opera in Munich, where he remained for over 30 years. Mazura's breakthrough performance came in 1958 when he played the role of Alberich in Richard Wagner's "Ring Cycle" at the Bayreuth Festival. He went on to perform the role of Alberich in many other productions, including at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Royal Opera House in London. Mazura was also known for his performances in the works of Alban Berg. He played the role of Wozzeck in Berg's eponymous opera, which he performed at the Salzburg Festival, the Vienna State Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera. He also played the role of the Doctor in Berg's "Lulu," which he performed at the Paris Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. In addition to his opera performances, Mazura was also a successful actor. He appeared in several films, including "The Tin Drum" and "The Name of the Rose." He also appeared in several television productions, including the German series "Tatort." Mazura received many awards and honors throughout his career. In 1973, he was awarded the Bavarian Order of Merit. In 1984, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. He was also awarded the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art in 1994. Mazura continued to perform well into his 80s. His last performance was in 2010, when he played the role of the Old Servant in Richard Strauss's "Die Frau ohne Schatten" at the Bavarian State Opera. He passed away on December 7, 2019, at the age of 94. Franz Mazura was a true master of his craft. His powerful voice and his ability to portray complex characters on stage made him one of the most respected opera singers of his time. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians and performers.

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