July 2000

A Coversation With Carlo Bergonzi

For longevity and quality, very few singers can match the career of Maestro Carlo Bergonzi. He's one of the old-style singers. It's all about the voice and everything else takes a backseat. We all sat together: the famous tenor, his translator, and me with my trusty tape recorder. I'd like to say that my Italian is great, but instead I caught as many words as I could from the Maestro and waited for the translator to fill me in on the words I missed. Bergonzi's intent was easy to decipher. In true Italian style, he waved his arms about in descriptions of sound. He commended me on my English, "with you… your speaking, I understand." Having one's diction complimented by one of the world's great singers feels pretty good.

Recordings : Classical Singer on Records

From Naxos, a Fidelio that levels the field

Reviews:

The San Diego Opera, and Bryn Terfel, bass-baritone

Classical Singer’s Voice Doctor Answers Your Questions on: : Extreme Weight Loss, Belting, and Allergy Control

Dear Dr. Jahn, I am a 29-year -old singer in my third year of voice studies. I will be taking part in a physician-supervised diet at a hospital. I currently

Business of Singing: : Will Success Spoil Charlotte Church?

This immature voice might need some guidance to save it from ruin.

Review: : What Happened at Carnegie Hall?

Bergonzi attempts Otello at age 75. This tragic event will not be forgotten any time soon. Classical Singer was there at the most discussed operatic event of the season.

Settling the Score

Which is better: following tradition or forging new ground in the production? And which score to use?