(Image Source: Royal Opera House)

On September 10, 2020, baritone Adrian Clarke passed away, the cause of death is listed as a prolonged illness.

Born in Northampton, Clarke studied at the Royal College of Music and the London Opera Centre. He made his debut with the Royal Opera in 1994, playing Sid in “La fanciulla del West,” and went on to sing with the company in a number of roles. Over the course of his career, he performed with companies such as Bregenz Festival, Royal Danish Opera, Teatro Lirico di Cagliari, La Fenice, Dutch National Opera, Glyndebourne, Scottish Opera, Welsh National Opera, and more.

In addition to the classical repertory, Clarke was known for his interpretations of contemporary works, performing roles in newer operas such as “Sophie’s Choice,” “To the Lighthouse,” “Golem,” “The Merchant of Venice,” and “The Griffin’s Tale.”

A number of companies have written brief statements on his passing via social media, with Welsh National Opera writing: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of baritone Adrian Clarke. Adrian performed the role of Von Faninal in our new production of ‘Der Rosenkavalier’ during our Spring 2017 Season and was due to return to reprise the role next Spring. He will be extremely missed.”