The Greatest of Tenors.

[vivandorron]

I put forward the question, "Who in your opinion has been the world's greatest Operatic Tenor?.

I say, John McCormack (1884-1945) who,unfortunately, is best remembered as a sinjger of Irish ballads. However, at 23yrs of age was (possibly still is) the youngest Tenor to have performed major roles at London's Covent Garden Opera House.

It has been said that when he met the Great Caruso and enquired "How is the world's greatest tenor?" the response he received was " Since when have you become a baritone.!

Ron.

[Clanad]

Well... you certainly know how to start an argument! Although Jussi Bjorling died in 1960 and I've only heard recordings of his magnificent voice, he'd easily receive my vote. I've heard some recordings of his earlier, pre-War years and would loved to have heard him in person or at least better quality recording. His rendition of Nessun dorma recorded in his native Sweden in 1943 is one of the most moving performances of this classic I've ever heard.
I realize it would sound populist to say so, but one can't slight the younger Pavarotti either...

[vivandorron]

Hi Clanad........You are right to put forward the name of Jussi Bjorling. I'd include him in a top twenty or even ten list. He had a tremendous voice and could send a shiver down my spine; when perhaps I wanted a feeling of warmth with tears in my eyes. I hope you Know what I mean.

I agree that Pavarotti, the younger version, is a strong contender for a top spot and in a simillar position I would include Beniamino Gigli; who, regretably, kept on singing like a Boxer past his prime. (as do so many singers.)

Incidentally, I re-reposted my question in the history section of AB. So if you are interested in the response and my further ccomments; please click the following:-

http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/History/Questio n573720.html

Best wishes..... Ron

[Keeprockin]

Although mainly a singer of operetta,the voice I like to hear is Richard Tauber.
My dad was a fan of J.McCormack

[vivandorron]

Hi Keeprockin.......Your father certainly had a ear for a great singer; as i feel sure you do. It's understandable your liking of Richard Tauber because he was an outstanding performer in what some would say was Operetta; but which i would prefer to call Light Opera: as opposed to Grand Opera. (The latter sometimes being really heavy and somewhat boring to the listener.)

I dislike Wagnerian Opera and go along with Rossini who is alleged to have said of Wagners music...." He has some wonderful moments, but terrible half hours." ... Consequently I can enjoy listening to Gilbert and Sullivan, along with 'Musicals' by Mozart, Donezetti, Rossini etc. (Perhaps 'Opera Buffa' is the more politically correct term for the stage productions.)

Please cross reference by clicking the link which I have given to Clanad.

Keep enjoying your music and singing........Ron.