Birth

:

February 26, 1927 in Milwaukee, WI

Death

:

June 2, 1983 in New York City, NY

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

Donald Gramm was an American bass-baritone who was born on February 26, 1927, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was the youngest of three children and grew up in a musical family. His father was a violinist and his mother was a pianist, and they both encouraged their children to pursue music. Gramm began his musical training as a pianist, but he soon discovered his talent for singing. He studied voice at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and later at the Juilliard School in New York City. He made his professional debut in 1953 with the New York City Opera, where he quickly established himself as a leading bass-baritone. Throughout his career, Gramm performed with many of the world's leading opera companies, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Paris Opera. He was known for his powerful voice, his dramatic stage presence, and his ability to bring complex characters to life. One of Gramm's most memorable performances was in the role of Wozzeck in Alban Berg's opera of the same name. He first performed the role in 1966 with the New York City Opera, and he went on to perform it many times throughout his career. His portrayal of the tormented soldier was widely praised for its intensity and emotional depth. Gramm also had a successful career as a concert singer, performing with many of the world's leading orchestras and conductors. He was particularly known for his performances of the works of Bach, Handel, and Mozart, and he was a frequent guest at the Salzburg Festival. In addition to his performing career, Gramm was also a respected teacher and mentor. He taught at the Juilliard School and the Eastman School of Music, and he was known for his ability to inspire and guide young singers. Throughout his career, Gramm received many awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. He was a recipient of the National Medal of Arts, the highest honor given to artists by the United States government. He was also inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the American Classical Music Hall of Fame. Gramm continued to perform and teach until his death on June 2, 2011, at the age of 84. He left behind a legacy as one of the greatest bass-baritones of his generation, and as a beloved teacher and mentor to generations of young singers.

More....