Artist of the Week: Nicholas Brownlee
American Bass-Baritone Makes Role Debut in ‘Der Fliegende Holländer’
By Francisco SalazarThis week the Santa Fe Opera is set to open a new production of Wagner’s early work “Der Fliegende Holländer” with a cast of superstars and rising stars. Among the cast is Nicholas Brownlee, who is singing the title role and making his role debut.
Brownlee has been a mainstay at the Santa Fe Opera since his debut in 2015 as the First Soldier in “Salome” and was also an Apprentice during the 2014 and 2015 seasons. In the two years, he has performed Kurwenal in “Tristan und Isolde,” Figaro in “The Marriage of Figaro” and Bottom in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
In a recent post, Brownlee noted that “Wagner has been one of the most exciting challenges of my life and I’m ready to keep chasing it for years to come.” Regarding the role, he said in a recent interview, “‘Dutchman,’ of all the Wagners definitely fits the best. It’s a little bit lower. It’s still got a big bel canto influence.”
For those who will not be in Santa Fe see “Der Fliegende Holländer,” Brownlee will return to Oper Frankfurt for productions of “Aida,” “Salome,” and “Carmen.” He will also make his debut at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma in “Salome” and at the Irish National Opera in “Faust.”
Recordings
Here is a look at some clips from Brownlee for those who want to discover more of his artistry.