Gerhard Stolze

**Gerhard Stolze** was a German tenor who left a lasting mark on the operatic world, particularly through his electrifying performances in Wagner's epic works. Born in 1926, he became a staple at the Bayreuth Festival during the 1950s and '60s, where his razor-sharp characterizations and vivid acting made him unforgettable in roles like Mime (*Siegfried*) and the scheming Loge (*Das Rheingold*). His voice—quirky, expressive, and packed with dramatic nuance—was tailor-made for Wagner’s complex antiheroes, and he frequently collaborated with legendary conductors like Karl Böhm and Herbert von Karajan.

Though best known for his Wagnerian roles (you’ll spot him in iconic live recordings like *Parsifal* and *Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg* from Bayreuth’s 1956 season), Stolze also ventured beyond the Ring Cycle. He tackled everything from Orff’s *Oedipus der Tyrann* to Gounod’s sacred works, showcasing his versatility. A true stage animal, Stolze’s performances were as much about physicality as vocal prowess, making him a standout even in an era crowded with opera giants. He passed away in 1979, but his recordings remain a masterclass in bringing operatic villains and misfits to life.

Genres

Opera

Classical

Latest Release

Gounod: Messe solennelle de Sainte Cécile; An Interview with Igor Markevitch (Igor Markevitch – The Deutsche Grammophon Legacy: Volume 19)

Gerhard Stolze•

Hermann Uhde•

Czech Philharmonic•

Igor Markevitch

Album - 21 Tracks - Released September 17, 2021