Jochen Kowalski
Germany- Jochen Kowalski, the German Countertenor
- Early Career
- Debut and Hamburg Oper
- International Success
- Vienna and New York
- Discography and Collaborations
Jochen Kowalski, the German Countertenor
Born in Wachow, Brandenburg, Germany, Jochen Kowalski emerged as a celebrated German operatic countertenor.
Early Career
From his childhood days as a chorister at the cathedral, Kowalski's musical journey took him to the Hochschule für Musik "Hanns Eisler" in Berlin (1977-1983). Upon graduation, he joined the Komische Oper Berlin as a soloist.
Debut and Hamburg Oper
Kowalski's debut performance came in 1983 as Tsar Fyodor in Boris Godunov. In 1984, he starred as the title character in Handel's Justin. His appearances at the Hamburg State Opera included Daniel in Handel's Belshazzar (1985) and Annio in Mozart's La clemenza di Tito (1986).
International Success
1987 marked the beginning of Kowalski's international career, with his role as Julius Caesar in Handel's Giulio Cesare in Egitto at the Grand Opéra in Paris. In 1989, he made his debut at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, as Orpheus in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice.
Vienna and New York
Kowalski's 1992 debut at the Vienna State Opera as Prince Orlofsky in Die Fledermaus was followed by his 1995 debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. He continues to perform in operas, give recitals, and record extensively.
Discography and Collaborations
Kowalski has released over 19 solo albums and eight vinyl records. His collaborations include recordings of Britten, Handel, Gluck, Haydn, Mozart, Rossini, and Strauss operas.
