Geoffrey Chard Australian baritone opera singer Date of Birth: 09.08.1930 Country: Australia

1. Biography of Jeffrey Chard
2. Early Career
3. Leading Baritone
4. Return to Australia
5. Contributions and Recognition

Biography of Jeffrey Chard

Jeffrey Chard, an Australian opera singer and baritone, was born on August 9, 1930, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. He was a member of the Order of Australia and one of the founders of the National Opera of New South Wales.

Early Career

In 1956, Chard made his debut in "The Marriage of Figaro" with the Australian Elizabethan Trust Opera Company, which later became Opera Australia. He then traveled to England in 1961 and performed in various major British opera theaters, including the Welsh National Opera, Glyndebourne Festival Opera, and the Royal Opera in Covent Garden. He also appeared at the Edinburgh Festival and the Aldeburgh Festival.

Leading Baritone

From 1969 to 1985, Chard was the leading baritone of the English National Opera, where he performed numerous leading roles, including some specifically written for him. He also played Sergeant Meryll in the 1982 television production of "The Yeomen of the Guard."

Return to Australia

After a brief return to Australia in 1982, Chard performed with the Lyric Opera of Queensland. In 1985, he permanently returned to his homeland and sang many leading roles in the Australian Opera. His repertoire included Don Alfonso in "Così fan tutte," Rangoni in "Boris Godunov," Scarpia in "Tosca," and Nick Shadow in Stravinsky's "The Rake's Progress." He also performed in Benjamin Britten's "Peter Grimes," Beethoven's "Fidelio," and numerous other operas.

Contributions and Recognition

In 1987, Jeffrey Chard was made a member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to the arts. Besides his achievements as a performer, Chard was involved with the Australian Musical Association as a committee member, secretary, and treasurer during his time in the United Kingdom. He also taught vocal performance at The Royal Academy of Music and collaborated with the NSW Conservatorium of Music. Chard regularly performed with the symphony orchestras of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and participated as a judge in major vocal competitions in Australia. He is also the president of the Sydney Savage Club and Hunters Hill Music.