Personalities | Beniamino Gigli | Modern Era | Opera

1890–1957, Italian

Caruso’s successor at the Met, Gigli possessed a lighter but sweeter voice, and with the advent of recording he actually became more popular than his predecessor. Rodolfo in La bohème and Nemorino in Don Pasquale were perfect for his effortless tone. Gigli’s association with the Met began in 1920 but, due to a salary dispute, ended in 1932. Including tours, he gave a total of around 500 performances, singing heavier repertoire in later years with mixed results. His Chénier and Canio in Pagliacci were vocal wonders, but some now consider his style – with its excessive sobs and portamenti – to be old-fashioned.

Introduction | Modern Era | Opera
Personalities | Alberto Ginastera | Modern Era | Opera
Houses & Companies | The Birth of the Metropolitan Opera | Turn of the Century | Opera

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