Opera mourns a young star
NewsPerformers from all parts of the opera world are lamenting the death, aged 35, from cancer, of the Belgian coloratura soprano Jodie Devos.
Lisette Oropesa: I’m so sad to read about her crossing over… The beautiful Jodie Devos has been called home, but so soon. Her spirit will live on and she will be remembered so fondly even by those of us who did not know her personally but admired her from afar.
Barbara Hannigan: It is with heavy heart that the music world has received the news of soprano Jodie Devos’ death to cancer, at the age of 35. She was a beautiful artist, vibrant and radiant of sound and presence, & I send my deepest condolences to her colleagues, her friends and to her family.
Rebecca Babb-Nelsen: Oh Jodie, I am so sad to hear you are no longer with us. Your voice was incredible, but the most beautiful thing about you was your heart! You will be sorely missed ❤️
Jodie and I worked together in Opera de Monte Carlo in a wonderful production of Die Entführung aus dem Serail – such a gifted artist and a wonderful human being. Sending you love and light into the great beyond!
Thomas Hampson: It is very sad news today about the loss of a treasured colleague and singer. Nature is uncompromising, and the Arts remind us so often of the humanity we celebrate with humility with one another. Jodie was that kind of artist—a generous soul, beautiful voice, and giving spirit. Dear friend, you have left too soon but have not lived in vain. Thank you! R.I.P. Jodie.
Michael Fabiano: Damn. Cancer is a bitch. I just read that Jodie Devos passed away from breast cancer. I had the privilege to share the stage with her in Hoffman at the Paris Opera. What a loving and terrific human that the world has lost. Rest in peace.
Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: We are saddened to learn of soprano Jodie Devos’ passing. We had the immense pleasure of working alongside Jodie for our collaborative production of Thomas’ Hamlet with Opéra Comique this past November, where her role as Ophélie was lauded. Jodie’s spirit, enthusiasm, warmth and commitment to her craft will always be remembered. Our thoughts are with her loved ones at this time.
Brussels Philharmonic: We are absolutely devastated to receive the tragic news of the passing of Jodie Devos. Her remarkable spirit, extraordinary musical talent and kind soul will be terribly missed by the whole musical world. Our hearts go out to her family, friends and loved ones. ️
Rest in peace, dearest Jodie
Laurence Equilbey: Farewell my Jodie. Flower of singing. Unforgettable Arthur in la Nonne sanglante and Leïla in the Pearl Fishermen. What a cruel world. Your voice, we already miss you.
Mikko Franck: In memoriam Jodie Devos (1988-2024) Grateful for the musical moments shared together. Your unique personality has touched so many, and will continue to do so forever.
Speranza Scapucci: Arrivederci cara Jodie , anima dolce , voce celestiale. Che la terra ti sia lieve, artista meravigliosa, donna gioiosa con il sorriso più bello del mondo . Ci mancherai
Renaud Capucon: Jodie Devos L’impensable disparition d’un ange
Here she is having fun as Gabrielle:
https://www.amazon.de/Offenbach-parisienne-Rodolphe-Briand-Mauillon/dp/B0BQJNPXL9/
A tragic loss, with many friends left mourning in its wake. A salutary reminder the even short lives can have an impact.
A wonderful memorial to this young artist’s life and career would be for Opera Europa and Opera America to put in place a young artists’ healthcare initiative.
The hectic, travelling life of young artists and the need to earn a living (and pay off student debt) often leaves little time to concentrate on one’s own health, to take time to see a doctor, or even to consider taking time off for the sake of one’s wellbeing.
It would be great to see an international scheme that allows young artists to see a doctor, wherever they are working, at no extra cost to themselves.
Something good has to come out of this desperately sad situation.
My condolences to her friends and family.
Unbearbly sad.
So sad; a young life and promising yet already established talent taken far too soon. Condolences to family, friends at this difficult time.