Tragic news: Stephen Gould has died
RIPThe 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
Terribly sad news.
This is indeed tragic and painful news. May he rest in peace.
I am terribly sorry. He was a wonderful, dignified Wagner performer. RIP.
So sorry to hear this news. RIP
Rest well!
Mute with grief, indeed. What a terrible news. Such a great artist and person.
His unforgettable Tristan opposite Nine Stemme’s Isolde at the ROH was life-changing and I will never forget it. RIP and thank you.
Un ténor d anthologie à la générosité vocale immense
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
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.
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!
I am so sad.A real heldentenor.
Awful, just awful. RIP and thanks for all those wonderful collaborations.
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!
Could Bayreuth please consider issuing more of his performances on CD and DVD please? His artistry deserves to live on. Thank you.