Birth

:

1951

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

Ivan Kusnjer is a renowned Czech baritone who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on 17th June 1951 in Prague, Kusnjer grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist. Kusnjer's parents recognized his musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Kusnjer began his musical education at the Prague Conservatory, where he studied under the guidance of Professor Karel Berman. He later continued his studies at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, where he received his diploma in 1975. During his studies, Kusnjer participated in several competitions and won several awards, including the Antonin Dvorak International Singing Competition in Karlovy Vary in 1974. After completing his studies, Kusnjer joined the National Theatre in Prague, where he made his debut as Papageno in Mozart's "The Magic Flute." He quickly established himself as one of the leading baritones in the Czech Republic and began to receive invitations to perform in other countries. In 1980, Kusnjer made his debut at the Salzburg Festival, where he performed the role of Harlequin in Richard Strauss's "Ariadne auf Naxos." This performance was a turning point in Kusnjer's career, and he began to receive international recognition. He went on to perform at other prestigious venues, including the Royal Opera House in London, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Paris Opera. Kusnjer's repertoire is extensive and includes works by Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, and Wagner. He is particularly known for his interpretations of Mozart's operas, and he has performed the role of Don Giovanni more than 200 times. Kusnjer is also a renowned interpreter of Czech music, and he has performed in several productions of Janacek's operas. Throughout his career, Kusnjer has received numerous awards and honors. In 1990, he was awarded the title of "Artist of Merit" by the Czech Republic, and in 2001, he was awarded the "Thalia Prize" for his contribution to Czech culture. He has also been awarded the "Golden Plaque" by the Czech Music Fund and the "Golden Medal" by the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague. Kusnjer has also been involved in teaching and mentoring young musicians. He has taught at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague and has served as a jury member for several international singing competitions. In addition to his work in opera, Kusnjer is also a respected concert singer. He has performed in several concerts and recitals, including performances of Schubert's "Winterreise" and Mahler's "Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen." Kusnjer's contribution to the world of classical music has been significant, and he continues to perform and inspire audiences around the world. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to mentoring young musicians have made him a respected figure in the world of classical music.

More....