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During the month of March, Dead Tenors’ Society is showcasing previously featured tenors in recordings never before shown on this channel. Alessandro Bonci (1870-1940) was a renowned lyric tenor who appeared in major international theaters during his 30 year career. Born in the northern Italian town of Cesena, he grew up in poverty, beginning his working life as a bootmaker’s apprentice. Bonci sang in local choirs from an early age, attracting attention for his alto voice. At 18, he applied for admission to Pesaro’s Rossini Conservatory, reportedly making the 45 mile journey on foot! He received a scholarship and studied with Tamagno’s teacher, Carlo Pedrotti. One of Bonci’s few professional engagements during his student days was in the choir of The Basilica della Santa Casa in Loreto. Upon the death of celebrated tenor Giuseppe Capponi, the 19 year old Bonci assumed the post of principal tenor with the choir. The salary of nearly 40,000 lire per month gave a boost to the impoverished student’s f
