Manuel Garcia Spanish opera singer (tenor), composer, impresario and singing teacher. Date of Birth: 21.07.1775 Country: Spain

Manuel Garcia: Spanish Operatic Tenor and Composer

Manuel Garcia was a renowned Spanish operatic tenor, composer, impresario, and singing teacher. Born in Seville, Spain, Garcia's passion for opera and singing led him to explore various opportunities in Madrid and Cadiz before eventually moving to Paris. Not only was he an exceptional vocalist, but Garcia also showcased his talent as a composer, having composed several light operas by the time he arrived in Paris. He later moved to Naples, Italy, where he actively participated in productions of Gioachino Rossini's works, including premieres such as 'Elisabetta, regina d'Inghilterra' and 'The Barber of Seville,' where he portrayed the character of Count Almaviva.

In 1816, Garcia returned to Paris briefly before heading to London. From 1819 to 1823, he resided in Paris, where he continued to be in high demand for popular opera productions, including 'The Barber of Seville,' 'Otello,' and Mozart's 'Don Giovanni.' Garcia's musical talents were also passed down to his descendants. His eldest daughter, Maria Malibran, gained fame as a highly acclaimed mezzo-soprano. Another daughter, Pauline Viardot, also became a remarkable singer and composer. Following in Manuel's footsteps, his son, Manuel Garcia Jr. initially pursued a career in opera before transitioning into teaching.

In 1826, Manuel Garcia and a group of colleagues embarked on a journey to the United States. It was through Garcia's efforts that Italian opera was first introduced to the States, with their debut performance taking place in New York. In the production of 'The Barber of Seville,' Manuel and his family members took on the main roles. Garcia portrayed Count Almaviva, his second wife Joaquina Sitchez played the role of Berta, Manuel Jr. embodied Figaro, and Maria excelled as Rosina. Polina, at the age of five, did not participate in this family endeavor. During their time in America, Garcia and his group met Venetian librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte, who convinced Manuel to present their familiar production of 'Don Giovanni' to the American audience. Once again, audiences were captivated by the classical opera performed by the entire Garcia family, with Manuel as Don Giovanni, his wife as Donna Elvira, Maria as Zerlina, and Manuel Jr. as Leporello.

After some time, Garcia and his family performed in Mexico. Manuel even considered settling there, but political unrest forced them to return to Paris. The French audience eagerly anticipated the talent of the Garcia clan, but unfortunately, age took its toll on Manuel's voice. Gradually, he was compelled to retire from the stage and focus on composing and teaching. Manuel's final role was performed in August 1831, and he passed away on June 10, 1832. The great singer and composer were laid to rest in Pere-Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. Francois-Joseph Fetis, who held Garcia's compositional abilities in high regard, had the honor of delivering the eulogy at his graveside.