Birth

:

November 8, 1921 in Hollywood, CA

Death

:

February 3, 2003 in New Jersey

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

Jerome Hines was an American bass opera singer who was born on November 8, 1921, in Hollywood, California. He was the son of Russell Hines, a silent film actor, and his wife, Grace. Hines grew up in Los Angeles and began singing in church choirs at a young age. He attended Hollywood High School and later studied at the University of California, Los Angeles. Hines began his professional singing career in 1941 when he joined the San Francisco Opera as a chorus member. He made his solo debut with the company in 1943 as the King in Verdi's Aida. Hines quickly gained recognition for his powerful voice and commanding stage presence. He went on to perform with many of the world's leading opera companies, including the Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden, La Scala, and the Vienna State Opera. One of Hines' most notable performances was his portrayal of Mephistopheles in Gounod's Faust. He first performed the role at the Metropolitan Opera in 1952 and went on to sing it over 800 times throughout his career. Hines was also known for his performances in Verdi's operas, particularly as Ramfis in Aida and as the Grand Inquisitor in Don Carlo. In addition to his opera performances, Hines was also a prolific concert singer. He performed with many of the world's leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. Hines was also a frequent guest on television and radio programs, including The Ed Sullivan Show and The Voice of Firestone. Throughout his career, Hines received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music. In 1960, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He was also inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1976. In 1984, Hines was awarded the National Opera Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 1997, he was inducted into the American Classical Music Hall of Fame. Hines was also a dedicated teacher and mentor to young singers. He taught at the Manhattan School of Music and the Juilliard School, and he founded the Jerome Hines Singing Foundation to provide scholarships and training to aspiring opera singers. Hines continued to perform well into his 70s, and his final performance was in 2001 at the age of 80. He passed away on February 4, 2003, at his home in New York City. In conclusion, Jerome Hines was a legendary bass opera singer who made a significant contribution to classical music. He was known for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and dedication to his craft. Hines received numerous awards and honors throughout his career and was a beloved teacher and mentor to many young singers. His legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of opera singers and music lovers around the world.

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