 |
Fernando CorenaSwiss Bass
Date of Birth: 22.12.1916
Country:  Switzerland |
Content:
Early Life and Education
Fernando Corena was born on December 22, 1916, in Geneva, Switzerland. His father was Turkish, and his mother was Italian. Corena initially studied theology at the University of Fribourg, intending to become a priest. However, after winning a singing competition, he decided to pursue a musical career.
He began his musical studies in his hometown and subsequently studied in Milan under the tutelage of Enrico Romani. Corena's vocal abilities caught the attention of Italian conductor Vittorio Gui, who encouraged him to pursue further training.
Professional Debut and Early Career
Corena's professional debut took place in 1947 in Trieste, where he sang the role of Varlaam in Mussorgsky's "Boris Godunov." He subsequently performed throughout Italy, establishing himself as a prominent bass in major roles such as Sparafucile, Escamillo, and Scarpia.
Corena made his debut at La Scala in 1948 and at the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in the following year. His career took a significant turn when he began to focus on opera buffa roles. He became known for his comic brilliance, earning comparisons to the legendary Italian bass Salvatore Baccaloni.
International Success
Corena made his Metropolitan Opera debut in 1954, portraying Leporello in Mozart's "Don Giovanni." He quickly became a beloved artist at the Met, performing all the great comic and character roles, including Bartolo in Mozart's "Le nozze di Figaro" and Rossini's "Il barbiere di Siviglia," Dulcamara in Donizetti's "L'elisir d'amore," and Mustafa in Rossini's "L'italiana in Algeri."
Later Career
Corena continued to perform at the highest levels throughout his career, appearing in major opera houses around the world. He retired from the Metropolitan Opera in 1978, having given his final performance in "Don Pasquale."
Corena possessed a powerful and resonant voice, complemented by his outstanding acting ability and emotional expressiveness. He was known for his ability to create memorable and impactful performances, even in supporting roles.
Legacy
Fernando Corena died on November 26, 1984, in Lugano, Switzerland, just weeks before his 68th birthday. He left behind a vast discography and a legacy as one of the greatest exponents of opera buffa in the postwar era.
