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Kathimerini.gr, 14 January
2009 |
By Elias Maglinis |
German rising star Jonas Kaufmann shares his thoughts on opera today
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Set to sing in Athens tomorrow, tenor
discusses his career and the importance of live performances |
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Having grown up in a family of classical music
and opera lovers, a career in music seemed a natural development for German
tenor Jonas Kaufmann, who appears at the Athens Concert Hall tomorrow.
Tall and slender, his face emanates a sense of long-lost romance but at the
same time also exudes something contemporary. German star tenor Jonas
Kaufmann is scheduled to appear at the Athens Concert Hall tomorrow night.
He will be accompanied by the Athens State Orchestra under the baton of
Michael Guttler.
«I grew up in a family where everyone listened to opera and symphonic
music,» said Kaufmann in an interview with Kathimerini. «Therefore, a career
in classical music came as a natural development - though I never dreamed of
becoming an opera singer.»
Unaware of his success in opera, one could presume that he is a pop star or
an actor.
«Interpreters' appearances have always played an important role in opera,»
noted Kaufmann. «The very early performances of 'La Traviata' were flops
because the prima donna was plump and did not convince audiences that she
was dying of tuberculosis. At the same time, however, many opera singers of
the past were like today's movie stars. Meanwhile, if you take a look at the
correspondence of great composers, you will see how anxious they were that
the interpreters' appearances matched their characters. And let me remind
you that the great Maria Callas was a superb interpreter - and not just
because of her voice. Given the evolution of cinema and television, perhaps
image plays an even greater role nowadays. In its original version, however,
opera was not meant to be seen close up, but from a distance. Today, given
the existence of cameras, things are very different and the factor of
appearance is more important than ever before, giving the entire experience
a greater level of realism.»
What are the rising tenor's favorite roles?
«I sometimes feel that I enjoy all of them equally. One very important role
for me, however, is Pamino from 'The Magic Flute.' I hope to go back to this
role - and, if I do, following 'Tosca,' 'Carmen' and 'Lohengrin,' it will
mean that I can manage my voice well. I should also mention 'Parsifal,' the
Duke in 'Rigoletto' and 'Idomeneo' - I have been very fortunate.»
In contrast with many of his fellow artists, Kaufmann doesn't believe that
the Internet and downloading are damaging to music.
«I consider downloading a very positive development. Anything that renders
classical music accessible to a broader audience - art in general - can only
be a good thing. I do have an observation, however: Don't just stay at home.
Now that you have watched opera on television and online, come to the
theater. Nothing can replace the experience of a live performance.»
What is Kaufmman planning to interpret tomorrow?
«I'm thrilled to come to Greece and I want to mention it. I have chosen
arias from 'La Boheme,' 'Tosca,' 'Carmen' and 'Lohengrin,' among others.
Under maestro Guttler, the orchestra will interpret works from 'The Barber
of Seville' and 'La forza del destino' among others.» |
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