Hans Hotter (1909-2003) was an acclaimed German operatic bass-baritone, renowned for his commanding stage presence and remarkable vocal depth. Born in Offenbach am Main, Germany, he began his professional career in the early 1930s, and his talent quickly led him to become one of the leading figures of the operatic world. Hotter's voice was well-suited for the dramatic roles of the German repertoire, and he is particularly celebrated for his interpretations of Wagner's works. He became one of the definitive Wotans of the 20th century, performing in Wagner's "Der Ring des Nibelungen" at the prestigious Bayreuth Festival and other leading opera houses around the world.

Despite his strong association with Wagner, Hotter's versatility allowed him to excel in a wide variety of roles across different composers, such as the title role in Mozart's "Don Giovanni" and Strauss's "Salome." His mastery extended beyond the opera stage, as he was also a remarkable concert artist, particularly esteemed for his performances of German lieder. His recorded legacy includes critically acclaimed renditions of Schubert's "Winterreise," and he frequently collaborated with leading accompanists including Gerald Moore and Michael Raucheisen. Even after his retirement from the stage, Hans Hotter continued to influence the world of opera through his work as a director and vocal teacher, sharing his deep understanding of music and performance with new generations of artists.

Genres

Classical Bass

Latest Release

Wagner: Siegfried, WWV 86C (Live)

Richard Wagner•

Martha Mödl•

Wolfgang Windgassen•

Hans Hotter•

Gustav Neidlinger•

Josef Greindl•

Bayreuth Festival Orchestra

Album - 55 Tracks - Released July 5, 2024