Jussi Bjorling Presentation

First, I want to say thank you for the many responses to my request for your two biggest questions about the voice. These give me lots of ideas of what you want to learn and understand better. (And if you didn’t respond you are still welcome to do so. See the previous...

Jussi Björling Anniversary

On this date 50 years ago the Swedish tenor Jussi Björling died in his sleep. He was 49 years old. Regular readers of this blog are probably aware of my admiration for this singer. I feel he is the closest to a perfect example of healthy singing function we have...

Q&A – Mezza Voce

I have a question regarding technique, in this case the (almost) lost art of mezza voce. For all his brilliant top notes I think some of Jussi Björling’s most memorable moments are those in which he is able to sing a high note softly but with a full ravishing...

Rolando Villazon at the Met

I caught the Associated Press review in the local paper of Rolando Villazon’s return to the Met. I am sorry to say I am not surprised about his difficulties. I have only heard him on video and recordings but I have always thought he over-sang. The way he thrusts...