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Ferruccio TagliaviniItalian opera singer, tenor
Date of Birth: 14.08.1913
Country:  Italy |
Content:
Biography of Ferruccio Tagliavini
Early Life and EducationFerruccio Tagliavini, an Italian opera singer and tenor, was born on August 14, 1913, in the small commune of Cavazzoli, located three kilometers northwest of Reggio Emilia. He spent most of his childhood and youth in the commune of Bibbiano and developed a strong attachment to this place throughout his life. Tagliavini studied at the Parma Conservatory Arrigo Boito under the guidance of composer and vocal teacher Italo Brancucci. He also received training in Florence from Amedeo Bassi, an Italian tenor known for his performances in Wagnerian repertoire and verismo style works before the First World War.
Professional Career
Tagliavini made his debut on the professional opera stage in Florence in 1938, portraying the role of Rodolfo in "La bohème." He quickly gained recognition as one of the leading lyric tenors of his time, performing in operas such as "Il barbiere di Siviglia," "L'elisir d'amore," "Don Pasquale," "La Sonnambula," "Lucia di Lammermoor," "Rigoletto," "La Traviata," "Manon," "Werther," "L'amico Fritz," and "L'arlesiana." Tagliavini graced the stages of major opera houses worldwide, including his debut at La Scala in Milan in 1942, Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires in 1946, Metropolitan Opera in New York City in 1947, San Francisco Opera in 1948, Theatre Royal in Covent Garden in London in 1950, and Paris Opéra in 1951.
Later Years and Legacy
In the 1950s, Tagliavini expanded his repertoire to include dramatic roles such as Riccardo in Verdi's "Un ballo in maschera," Cavaradossi in Puccini's "Tosca," and Faust in Boito's "Mefistofele." However, these roles took a toll on the quality of his voice. Tagliavini retired from the stage in 1965 but continued to perform in concerts until the mid-1970s, leaving behind an impressive discography. His best recordings of operatic arias, which showcase his remarkable skill and soft singing style, were made during the height of his career in the 1940s. Additionally, from 1941 to 1959, he appeared in several musical films, including the 1946 version of "Il barbiere di Siviglia."
Personal Life and Death
In 1941, Tagliavini married soprano Pia Tassinari. They frequently performed together on stage and made several joint recordings. Ferruccio Tagliavini passed away in his hometown of Reggio Emilia on January 29, 1995.
