Laura Claycomb American opera singer Date of Birth: 23.08.1968 Country: USA

Biography of Laura Claycomb

Laura Claycomb is an American operatic soprano who has gained recognition for her versatile repertoire and exceptional vocal technique. She began her career by training at the San Francisco Opera as part of a program for young performers.

In 1994, Claycomb achieved second place in the International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow. That same year, she made her debut at the Geneva Opera, stepping in for an ill soloist in the role of Juliette in Vincenzo Bellini's "I Capuleti e i Montecchi." She later debuted in the same role at the Opéra Bastille and the Los Angeles Opera.

Claycomb's repertoire includes other key roles such as Gilda in Verdi's "Rigoletto," Lucia di Lammermoor in Donizetti's opera of the same name, and Cleopatra in Handel's "Giulio Cesare." She also performs contemporary works, such as the role of Amanda in György Ligeti's opera "Le Grand Macabre," which was nominated for a Grammy Award.

Known for her incredible versatility, Claycomb has mastered a wide range of operatic repertoire. She has performed approximately 60 operatic roles, 46 chamber works, 31 orchestral vocal works, and roles in 15 operettas. She has a particular interest in baroque music, which was sparked by her collaboration with Emmanuel Aimé, as well as contemporary compositions by composers such as Arvo Pärt and Kaija Saariaho.

In 2006, Claycomb visited Moscow for performances, receiving enthusiastic reviews from the press. Critics praised her ability to embody complex characters and her remarkable vocal technique. Her unique voice, filled with emotion and sensitivity, captivated audiences.

In 2010, Claycomb received a Grammy Award for her recording of Gustav Mahler's Eighth Symphony with the San Francisco Symphony, conducted by Michael Tilson Thomas. That same year, she participated in the Second Bolshoi Festival of the Russian National Orchestra in Moscow, as well as a concert performance of Offenbach's "Les contes d'Hoffmann," where she sang the roles of all four main heroines.

In 2013, Claycomb performed the role of the main protagonist in Bellini's "La Sonnambula" at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. Her career has been marked by numerous accolades and successful performances, solidifying her reputation as a highly skilled and versatile operatic soprano.