Leo Slezak (18 August 1873 – 1 June 1946) was a renowned Austrian tenor, one of the most eminent opera singers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in Mährisch-Schönberg, Austro-Hungarian Empire (now Šumperk, Czech Republic), Slezak possessed a powerful voice with a bright timbre and a wide vocal range, which he wielded with remarkable stamina and expressiveness. His abilities allowed him to excel in the dramatic tenor roles of the German and Italian repertoires, including works by Wagner, Verdi, and Puccini.

Slezak's career spanned several decades, debuting in 1896 in Brno and eventually taking stage at some of the world's most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Berlin State Opera, and the Vienna State Opera. His interpretative depth and his charismatic stage presence earned him critical acclaim and a legion of fans. Leo Slezak's legacy extends beyond live performances; he left behind a significant discography, which includes recordings of opera arias and German Lieder, capturing the essence of his remarkable talent for generations to come. His artistry is showcased in various collections, including "Lebendige Vergangenheit" (Living Memory) series and anthologies, which bring together his recordings from the early days of sound recording technology. These collections remain a testament to Slezak's enduring influence in the world of classical music and opera.

Genres

Vintage Classical Singing

Latest Release

An Anthology of Song, Vol. 3 (1913-1929)

Leo Slezak

Album - 24 Tracks - Released January 4, 2011