The singer chosen for this role needs a very strong voice, often called a "Heldentenor" in German (a "
heroic tenor"), and Lyric Opera made a great choice by inviting acclaimed German tenor Burkhard Fritz for this complicated, yet rewarding role.
Indeed, both Verdi and Wagner desired voices that could not only "meet the demands of
heroic tenor roles but also act and at times sing lightly" (p.
There was some balm, however, Robert Murray delivering a transfiguring Sanctus from up in the organ-loft, his
heroic tenor surely pointing him in the direction of Wagnerian greatness.
His final aria "Di quella pira" from "Il Trovatore" with the choir singing behind him was a triumphal version of this barnstormer that revealed his rich
heroic tenor with vivid certainty.
Dennis is also knows he is no longer physically a very convincing
heroic tenor.
The young
heroic tenor from Texas can summon the requisite vocal brass when required but has a convincing lyrical side as well.
La Spina, an Italian both in name and in the light timbre of his voice, who gives a more youthful impression than the
heroic tenor B.
Though not well known in his native Canada, Ryan has been much in demand in Europe over the past few seasons in the
heroic tenor repertoire.
A doddering fop as Herod, Dan Chamandy uses his suave,
heroic tenor to sing the role rather than follow custom and shout it.
But there is no one who can cut through the heavy layers of Wagner's orchestral sound with a ringing
heroic tenor like Schmidt.
Griffey's stage presence and
heroic tenor pretty much stole the show.
Torsten Kerl has been making a name for himself as a
heroic tenor in Europe, and can be heard here as Menelaus.