Birth

:

January 10, 1926

Death

:

May 14, 2012

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Orchestral

 

Derek Hammond-Stroud was a renowned British baritone who made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on 6th June 1926 in London, he was the son of a civil servant and a music teacher. His parents recognized his musical talent at an early age and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Hammond-Stroud received his early education at the City of London School and later went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music. He was a gifted singer and quickly made a name for himself in the music world. He made his debut at the Royal Opera House in 1953, playing the role of the Herald in Wagner's Lohengrin. Over the years, Hammond-Stroud performed in several operas and concerts, both in the UK and abroad. He was known for his powerful voice and his ability to convey emotion through his singing. Some of his most notable performances include his portrayal of the title role in Mozart's Don Giovanni, the role of Escamillo in Bizet's Carmen, and the role of the Count in Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro. In addition to his work in opera, Hammond-Stroud was also a prolific concert singer. He performed in several major concerts, including the Last Night of the Proms, and was a regular performer at the Royal Festival Hall. He was also a frequent guest on BBC radio and television programs. Throughout his career, Hammond-Stroud received several awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 1965, he was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's Gold Medal, one of the highest honors in the music world. He was also made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1979 for his services to music. Despite his success, Hammond-Stroud remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He was known for his professionalism and his willingness to work hard to perfect his performances. He was also a mentor to many young singers, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Hammond-Stroud retired from performing in 1990 but continued to be involved in the music world as a teacher and mentor. He passed away on 28th March 2012, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in classical music. His contributions to the world of opera and concert singing will be remembered for generations to come.

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