Louis Cazette French opera singer, tenor. Country: France

Biography of Louis Cazette

Louis Cazette was a French opera singer and tenor. He was born in 1887 in Nantes as Victor Louis Camille Peault. His family moved to Paris when he was very young, and it was in Paris that Louis first developed a passion for music. Despite joining the army and serving in the cavalry, he continued to pursue his musical studies.

In 1912, Cazette enrolled at the Paris Conservatory, studying under the guidance of renowned French tenor Pierre-Émile Engel, who was known for his exceptional teaching abilities. He also studied with Albert Saléza and Jan Reder. In 1914, Cazette won three vocal competitions and signed a contract with Opéra-Comique. However, his plans were disrupted by the outbreak of World War I, and he had to join the army.

After being demobilized in 1919, Cazette was invited back to Opéra-Comique, where he made his professional operatic debut on June 14, 1919, performing the role of Le Noctambule in Gustave Charpentier's opera "Louise." His first major role was Pinkerton in "Madame Butterfly." Throughout the 1920s, Cazette performed smaller roles in opera premieres alongside renowned artists of the time, such as Vanni Marcoux.

During that period, competition among tenors was incredibly fierce. It was challenging to secure leading roles, with artists like Léon Beyle, David Devriès, Léon David, René Lapelletrie, and Emile Marcelin also performing at Opéra-Comique. One of Cazette's first significant successes was his portrayal of Ferrando in Mozart's opera "Così fan tutte" under the direction of André Messager. He also added Vincent from "Mireille" and Wilhelm Meister from "Mignon" by Ambroise Thomas to his repertoire.

In 1921, Cazette sang Gerald in "Lakmé" for the first time. He rarely performed outside of Paris, but in 1922, he participated in a production of "Don Giovanni," receiving accolades from the audience while performing alongside Yvonne Gall, Aline Vallandri, and Vanni Marcoux. His last new role was Des Grieux, which he first performed on March 9, 1922.

On April 28, 1922, Cazette took the stage for the last time in "Don Giovanni," once again performing alongside Vanni Marcoux. The following evening, he complained of neck pains and was unable to perform in "Mireille." The next day, the 34-year-old artist passed away. It was discovered that Cazette had contracted tetanus from accidentally injuring himself with a trident prop used in the production. His career spanned only three years, but there are 11 recordings that showcase his enchanting and elegantly charming vocal talents.