Country

:

France

Birth

:

February 16, 1896 in Geneva, Switzerland

Death

:

June 6, 1976 in Paris, France

Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

 

Vocal

 

Charles Panzèra was a renowned French baritone who made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. He was born on December 16, 1921, in Paris, France, to a family of musicians. His father was a violinist, and his mother was a pianist. Panzèra grew up in a musical environment and started singing at a young age. Panzèra received his formal music education at the Paris Conservatory, where he studied under the guidance of famous baritone Martial Singher. He made his professional debut in 1946 at the Opéra-Comique in Paris, where he played the role of Escamillo in Georges Bizet's opera Carmen. His performance was well-received, and it marked the beginning of his successful career as a baritone. Over the years, Panzèra performed in numerous operas and concerts across Europe and the United States. He was known for his powerful voice, impeccable technique, and dramatic interpretation of roles. He was particularly renowned for his performances in the works of French composers, such as Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, and Francis Poulenc. One of Panzèra's most notable performances was in the 1953 premiere of Poulenc's opera Dialogues des Carmélites at the Théâtre National de l'Opéra-Comique in Paris. He played the role of Marquis de la Force, and his performance was widely praised for its emotional depth and intensity. The opera went on to become a classic of the 20th century, and Panzèra's performance was considered one of the highlights of the production. Panzèra also had a successful career as a concert singer, performing in recitals and concerts across Europe and the United States. He was particularly renowned for his performances of French art songs, such as those by Gabriel Fauré and Henri Duparc. He was known for his ability to convey the emotional depth and subtlety of these works, and his performances were often described as deeply moving. Throughout his career, Panzèra received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 1955, he was awarded the Grand Prix du Disque for his recording of Poulenc's opera Les Mamelles de Tirésias. In 1961, he was awarded the Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur, one of the highest honors in France. In 1972, he was awarded the Prix de l'Académie du Disque Français for his recording of Fauré's songs. Despite his success, Panzèra remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He was known for his meticulous preparation and attention to detail, and he always sought to improve his performances. He was also a respected teacher, and he taught at the Paris Conservatory for many years, passing on his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of singers. Charles Panzèra passed away on December 22, 2000, at the age of 79. He left behind a legacy of exceptional performances and recordings, and he remains one of the most respected and beloved baritones of the 20th century. His contributions to the world of classical music will continue to inspire and delight audiences for generations to come.

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