(Credit: Miklas Szabo)

Swedish baritone John Lundgren has announced he is retiring from the stage.

The baritone took to Instagram and said, “After 25 years in this extraordinary industry, in over 60 roles, on over 50 different opera- and concert stages around the world this chapter has finally come to a close. I have for some time now felt a longing and excitement to get to start a new chapter in my professional life. I feel such deep gratitude and tremendous joy over all the marvellous colleagues -on, behind and under the stage- that I have had the great privilege to meet and work with these years. And I am so grateful for the wonderful audience, some of whom have become my dear friends, who have come and listened to me night after night. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Leb wohl and so long! ”

Lundgren’s management company, Braathen Artist Management, added, “We celebrate the truly remarkable career of the dramatic baritone John Lundgren. After more than two decades of bringing life to operatic gods and villains in epic productions around the globe, he is now bringing this extraordinary chapter to a close!  With his dramatic baritone and imposing stage presence, John established himself as the foremost opera villain of his generation. He captivated audiences at some of the most prestigious opera houses around the world, in roles such as Wotan, the title role in The Flying Dutchman, Scarpia, and many many more. We look back with deep appreciation on an impressive and memorable career and we will cherish the artistry and all the unforgettable moments he has given us. Thank you John, and may your future endeavours entail as much force, passion, and joy as you have brought to the stage!!”

Throughout his career, Lundgren performed at leading opera houses in London, Berlin, Munich, Stockholm, Zurich, Geneva, Dresden, Hamburg, Leipzig, Amsterdam, Gothenburg, Oslo, Beijing and Tokyo. He performed roles by Puccini, Beethoven, Verdi, Strauss, Tchaikovsky, and Wagner. He was particularly well known for his Wotan in “The Ring Cycle.”

Regarding a performance of “Die Frau ohne Schatten” in 2019, OperaWire noted, “He indulged himself in some fine lyrical singing of real beauty, his voice is powerful, always secure and well-focused.”