Experiencing the bel canto (translated from Italian as “beautiful singing”) of tenor Gregory Kunde is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Kunde, who has performed all over the world in the most notable opera houses, will be visiting the U on Wednesday as part of the Virtuoso Series.
As one listens to his beautifully even articulations, it’s difficult to believe that Kunde’s origins within the music world began with rock ‘n’ roll.
Heralding from Kankakee, Ill., Kunde did not realize his natural abilities to sing opera until entering a last-minute audition for the Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Young Artists Program during his fourth year at Illinois State University.
Successfully winning a coveted apprenticeship for his interpretation of Donizetti’s “Una furtiva lagrima,” Kunde found himself performing with opera’s most elite performers–Luciano Pavarotti, Sherrill Milnes and Mirella Freni.
It was here that he met his mentor, the illustrious Spanish tenor Alfredo Kraus, the man who would help him reach beyond the infamous high C to a high F–notes that Kunde ascends with effortlessness and absolute grace.
Over the past 25 years, Kunde has been developing a new standard for bel canto, purifying the style and pieces created for it.
Earning fame and recognition for his performances of what are considered opera’s most difficult tenor roles, Kunde executes them with precision and vigor.
The performance will be held in the Libby Gardner Concert Hall at 7:30 p.m. It is a rare opportunity to hear arguably the most beautiful bel canto in the world from the lips of the man who has redefined it.