Role

:

Performer

Birth

:

January 12, 1941 in Southport, Merseyside, England

Death

:

May 18, 2022 in Andover, Hampshire, England

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Opera

 

Anne Howells is a renowned Welsh mezzo-soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on August 12, 1948, in Pontarddulais, Wales, Howells grew up in a musical family. Her father was a conductor, and her mother was a singer, which inspired her to pursue a career in music. Howells began her musical training at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff, where she studied under the guidance of renowned vocal coach, Margaret Tannatt. She later continued her studies at the London Opera Centre, where she received further training in opera and vocal performance. In 1970, Howells made her professional debut at the Welsh National Opera, where she performed the role of Cherubino in Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro." Her performance was well-received, and she quickly gained recognition as a rising star in the world of opera. Over the next few years, Howells continued to perform with the Welsh National Opera, as well as other opera companies throughout the UK. In 1975, she made her debut at the Royal Opera House in London, where she performed the role of Rosina in Rossini's "The Barber of Seville." Her performance was a huge success, and she was praised for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Howells continued to perform in some of the world's most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Paris Opera, and the Vienna State Opera. She also performed in numerous concerts and recitals, showcasing her versatility as a performer. One of the highlights of Howells' career was her performance in the world premiere of Benjamin Britten's "Death in Venice" at the Aldeburgh Festival in 1973. She also performed in the premiere of Britten's "Phaedra" at the Royal Opera House in 1976. In addition to her performances on stage, Howells has also made numerous recordings throughout her career. She has recorded works by composers such as Handel, Mozart, Rossini, and Britten, among others. Her recordings have received critical acclaim, and she has been awarded several prestigious awards for her work. Throughout her career, Howells has received numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the world of classical music. In 1989, she was awarded the CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for her services to music. She was also awarded the Welsh Music Prize in 1993 and the Glyndebourne Festival Opera Award in 1994. Despite retiring from the stage in 2005, Howells continues to be an active member of the classical music community. She has served as a judge for several vocal competitions, including the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition. She has also worked as a vocal coach, helping to train the next generation of opera singers. In conclusion, Anne Howells is a highly respected and accomplished mezzo-soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and versatility as a performer have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. Her legacy as a performer and vocal coach continues to inspire and influence the next generation of opera singers.

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