Norman Bailey was an esteemed British bass-baritone, known for his powerful performances in opera houses around the world. Born on March 23, 1933, in Birmingham, England, Bailey's operatic career spanned several decades, during which he became particularly renowned for his interpretations of Wagnerian roles. His deep, resonant voice and insightful characterizations allowed him to excel in some of Wagner's most challenging operas, including "Parsifal," "The Ring Cycle" (comprising "The Rhinegold," "The Valkyrie," "Siegfried," and "Götterdämmerung"), and "Der fliegende Holländer." Bailey's contributions to opera were not limited to Wagner, however; his repertoire also included significant roles in Verdi's "Rigoletto" and Elgar's "The Dream of Gerontius," amongst others, showcasing his versatility and breadth as an artist.

Over the years, Norman Bailey was celebrated not only for his performances on stage but also for his contributions to recorded opera, leaving behind a substantial legacy through recordings that continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts. His interpretation of roles was marked by a unique blend of vocal prowess and emotional depth, which brought the complex characters he portrayed to life. Bailey's impact on the opera world was recognized through numerous awards and honors, cementing his status as one of the leading operatic bass-baritones of his time. Though he passed away on October 15, 2021, Norman Bailey's legacy endures through his recordings and the many memories shared by those who had the privilege of witnessing his performances live.

Genres

Classical Bass

Latest Release

Wagner: Parsifal (Recorded Live 1971)

Richard Wagner•

Norman Bailey•

Nan Christie•

Kiri Te Kanawa•

Jon Vickers

Album - 44 Tracks - Released October 28, 2014