Francesco Tamagno - Di quella pira

Francesco Tamagno (1850-1905) was considered the greatest dramatic tenor of his generation. During the last quarter of the 19th century, this legendary singer captured the attention of audiences everywhere with his performances in opera and concert. Born in Turin to a wine merchant and tavern keeper, Tamagno showed early promise as a singer, but was refused entry to the Turin Conservatory when he first applied at the age of seventeen. Not to be dissuaded, the young tenor repeatedly auditioned for the Teatro Regio in his hometown. Eventually he was accepted into the chorus and began studying with celebrated composer and teacher Carlo Pedrotti (1817-1893). As he continued to gain stage experience as a chorister, Tamagno hoped to be given the opportunity to sing roles with the company. He got his wish in February of 1872 when he debuted in the small role of Gaspero in the local premiere of Francesco Cortesi’s opera La Colpa del Cuore. Other comprimario parts followed during the season in such operas as P