Role

:

Conductor  

Birth

:

1981 in San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina

 

Franco Fagioli is a world-renowned countertenor, known for his exceptional vocal range and virtuosic performances. Born on March 27, 1981, in San Miguel de Tucumán, Argentina, Fagioli grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. He was particularly drawn to the music of Baroque composers such as Handel and Vivaldi, and his early training focused on developing his countertenor voice. Fagioli's talent was quickly recognized, and he began performing professionally in his early twenties. He made his operatic debut in 2003, singing the role of Arsace in Handel's Partenope at the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires. This performance was a critical success, and Fagioli soon began receiving invitations to perform at major opera houses and festivals around the world. One of Fagioli's most notable early performances was his portrayal of the title role in Handel's Giulio Cesare at the Glyndebourne Festival in 2005. This production, directed by David McVicar, was widely praised for its innovative staging and Fagioli's powerful performance. The following year, Fagioli made his debut at the Salzburg Festival, singing the role of Ruggiero in Handel's Alcina. Fagioli's career continued to flourish in the following years, with performances at major opera houses including the Royal Opera House in London, the Opéra National de Paris, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He also became a regular performer at festivals such as the Festival d'Aix-en-Provence and the Festival Internacional Cervantino in Mexico. In addition to his operatic performances, Fagioli has also established himself as a leading interpreter of Baroque vocal music. He has recorded several albums of Handel arias, including the critically acclaimed Arias for Caffarelli, which features arias written for the celebrated castrato singer Gaetano Majorano, known as Caffarelli. Fagioli's recordings have received numerous awards and accolades, including the International Opera Award for Best Recital Album in 2016. Fagioli's vocal technique is characterized by his exceptional range and agility, as well as his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his singing. He is particularly noted for his performances of Handel's music, which he approaches with a deep understanding of the composer's style and intentions. Despite his success, Fagioli has faced some criticism for his unconventional approach to Baroque music. He has been known to take liberties with the music, adding ornamentation and improvisation to his performances. Some critics have accused him of sacrificing authenticity for the sake of showmanship, but Fagioli has defended his approach, arguing that it allows him to bring a fresh perspective to the music and connect with audiences in a more immediate way. In recent years, Fagioli has continued to push the boundaries of his art, collaborating with contemporary composers and experimenting with new forms of expression. He has also become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to speak out against discrimination and promote acceptance and inclusivity. Overall, Franco Fagioli is a singular talent in the world of classical music, known for his exceptional vocal abilities and his willingness to take risks and challenge conventions. His performances continue to captivate audiences around the world, and his contributions to the art form are sure to be remembered for years to come.

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