Tragic news: Stephen Gould has died

Tragic news: Stephen Gould has died

RIP

norman lebrecht

September 20, 2023

The Bayreuth Festival has announced the death of the American Heldentenor Stephen Gould, one of its shining stars of recent years. Stephen, who was 61 years old, withdrew from three roles this summer, making it clear just two weeks ago that he was suffering from inoperable bile-duct cancer.

The speed of his decline and the shock of his passing have left the opera world mute with grief. Stephen Gould made his Bayreuth debut in 2004 and sang more than 100 performances there.

Though his career was late to take flight, after a peripheral start as a baritone, he earned worldwide respect and affection.

May he rest in peace.

UPDATE: Lise Davidsen leads tributes

Comments

  • Chris Ponto says:

    Terribly sad news.

  • A.L. says:

    This is indeed tragic and painful news. May he rest in peace.

  • Bloom says:

    I am terribly sorry. He was a wonderful, dignified Wagner performer. RIP.

  • Gianni says:

    So sorry to hear this news. RIP

  • Rj says:

    Rest well!

  • Clem says:

    Mute with grief, indeed. What a terrible news. Such a great artist and person.

  • Jon McGurk says:

    His unforgettable Tristan opposite Nine Stemme’s Isolde at the ROH was life-changing and I will never forget it. RIP and thank you.

  • F1813 says:

    Un ténor d anthologie à la générosité vocale immense

  • Franz Welser-Möst says:

    I am deeply saddened by the news. What an extraordinary artist and wonderful human being with a great sense of humor and humility. Beautiful memories… RIP

    • Herr Doktor says:

      Maestro Welser-Most, I was sorry to hear of your recent health challenges as well, and wanted to wish you a speedy and full recovery. We all hope you have many outstanding years of music-making to look forward to.

      I consider myself fortunate to have attended the Cleveland Orchestra’s mini-Bruckner festival at Avery Fisher Hall over a decade ago, and still remember the outstanding performances of the 5th and 8th symphonies in particular. Those performances were special. I look forward to someday hearing more Bruckner from your baton after you have recovered. I’m sending good wishes your way.

  • Zarathusa says:

    An incredibly wondrous voice…now stilled. Those of us who had the opportunities to see and hear Steve perform in person are truly blessed! R.I.P. and may flights of angels sing thee to thy heavenly rest!

  • Merville says:

    I am so sad.A real heldentenor.

  • Anthony Sayer says:

    Awful, just awful. RIP and thanks for all those wonderful collaborations.

  • Axl says:

    Oh no! He was one of the best tenors what I’ve heard! Rest in peace maestro Gould and thank you for your musical legacy!

  • Ernest says:

    Could Bayreuth please consider issuing more of his performances on CD and DVD please? His artistry deserves to live on. Thank you.

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