Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

March 22, 1945 in Redruth, Cornwall, England

Genre

:

Opera

 

Alan Opie is a renowned British baritone who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on November 22, 1945, in Sunderland, England, Opie grew up in a musical family. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a singer. Opie's love for music was evident from a young age, and he began singing in his local church choir at the age of seven. Opie's musical education began at the Royal Manchester College of Music, where he studied under the tutelage of Frederic Cox. He later continued his studies at the Royal Northern College of Music, where he was awarded the prestigious Gold Medal for singing. Opie's talent was recognized early on, and he was soon offered a contract with the English National Opera. Opie's career took off in the 1970s, and he quickly established himself as one of the leading baritones of his generation. He made his debut at the Royal Opera House in 1973, playing the role of Schaunard in Puccini's La Bohème. This was followed by a string of successful performances, including the role of Figaro in Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro and the title role in Verdi's Rigoletto. Opie's performances were not limited to the UK, and he soon became a sought-after performer on the international stage. He made his debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1984, playing the role of Marcello in La Bohème. This was followed by performances at the Paris Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and the Bavarian State Opera. Opie's repertoire is vast, and he has performed in a wide range of operas, including works by Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, and Britten. He is particularly renowned for his performances in the works of Benjamin Britten, and he has played leading roles in many of Britten's operas, including Billy Budd, Peter Grimes, and The Turn of the Screw. Opie's performances have been widely acclaimed, and he has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 1990, he was awarded the CBE for his services to music, and in 2008, he was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's Gold Medal, one of the highest honors in the world of classical music. Opie's contribution to the world of classical music extends beyond his performances on stage. He is also a respected teacher and mentor, and he has taught at the Royal Northern College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music. He has also served as a judge for many prestigious singing competitions, including the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition. Opie's legacy in the world of classical music is significant, and his performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to excellence have made him one of the most respected and admired baritones of his generation.

More....