Jess Thomas was an eminent American tenor, celebrated for his powerful voice and staple in the German operatic repertoire, specifically the heroic roles penned by Richard Wagner. Born on August 4, 1927, in Hot Springs, South Dakota, he initially embarked on a career in education but was drawn to opera after serving in the U.S. Army. Trained at the University of California and Stanford University, Thomas quickly gained a reputation for his exceptional artistry and vocal strength.

His operatic debut came in 1957 with a role in "Aida", but it was his portrayal of Wagnerian roles that carved his niche as one of the leading Heldentenors of his time. With his strikingly bright and clarion voice, Thomas became a mainstay at the Bayreuth Festival, a shrine to Wagner's works, and graced the stages of the Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden, and La Scala among others. His performances in "Lohengrin", "Parsifal", and "Die Walküre" are considered legendary.

Not limited to the stage, Thomas also left a substantial recorded legacy, capturing his live performances with great conductors such as Leonard Bernstein and Herbert von Karajan. His recordings of "Gotterdammerung", "Das Lied von der Erde", and the coveted "Beethoven's Symphony No. 9" display not just his vocal prowess but also his emotional range and musical intellect. Jess Thomas's contribution to the operatic world, particularly within Wagnerian roles, remains influential, inspiring countless tenors who walk the fine line between power and poetry. He passed away on October 11, 1993, but his legacy continues through his celebrated recordings and the many operatic talents who look to his career as a beacon of artistic excellence.

Genres

Classical Tenor

Wagnerian Singing

Latest Release

Bernstein conducts Wagner: Gotterdammerung (Selection)

Richard Wagner•

Jess Thomas•

Leonard Bernstein•

New York Philharmonic

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released November 20, 2020