Review
‘Carmen’ at the Royal Opera House
Brian Jagde excels as Don José as he reveals an extremely expansive tenor that is as impassioned as it is powerful.
Brian Jagde excels as Don José as he reveals an extremely expansive tenor that is as impassioned as it is powerful.
American tenor Brian Jagde discusses his performance in Georges Bizet’s infamous opera, the nomadic life of a singer and why the art form remains relevant today.
Tenor Brian Jagde, in his finest company outing to date, was a big-voiced Cavaradossi, producing firm, heroic sound throughout. His impassioned performance of the Act III aria, “E lucevan le stelle,” was a highlight of the evening.
Currently starring in San Francisco Opera’s new production of “Tosca,” Jagde will break the record this season as having performed the role of Cavaradossi more than any tenor in the history of the company ... In anticipation of this memorable feat, the tenor listed off his four favorite tenors in the role.
Host David Latulippe talks with American tenor Brian Jagde, who sings the part of Cavaradossi; and Italian soprano Carmen Giannattasio, making both her San Francisco Opera and title role debuts.
... Jagde gave it his all as the heroic Cavaradossi. His arias “Recondita armonia” and “E lucevan le stelle” resonated effortlessly in the house ...
Brian Jagde proved an ideal Don José, with great stage presence, a supple, virile voice and amazingly good French diction. He managed to impress with his phrasing, and faithfully produced the pianissimo B flat at the end of “La fleur que tu m’avais jetée.