A renowned Swiss tenor and educator, celebrated for his lyrical voice and masterful interpretation of Mozart and Bach's works, particularly in the realm of oratorio and opera.
Ernst Haefliger, a renowned Swiss tenor, is best known for his sublime voice and impeccable musicianship, which earned him accolades and admiration across the globe. With a career spanning over four decades, Haefliger mastered the art of lieder and choral works, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
Born on July 6, 1919, in Davos, Switzerland, Haefliger's early life was steeped in music. He studied at the Wettinger Seminary and the Zürich Conservatory, later becoming a pupil of Fernando Carpi in Geneva and the noted tenor Julius Patzak in Vienna.
Haefliger's debut as the Evangelist in Bach's St. John Passion in Zürich (1943) marked the beginning of his illustrious career. After World War II, he began performing abroad, catching the attention of Ferenc Fricsay, who engaged him for the Salzburg Festival. Haefliger's breakthrough role as Tiresias in Carl Orff's opera Antigonae (1949) catapulted him to international acclaim.
Haefliger's repertoire was vast and diverse, encompassing Mozart operas, Rossini's The Barber of Seville, Pfitzner's Palestrina, and Smetana's The Bartered Bride, among others. He collaborated with esteemed conductors like Wilhelm Furtwängler and sang at prominent venues such as the Deutsche Oper Berlin and the Boston Peabody Mason Concert series.
Haefliger's extensive discography includes recordings for Angel, Columbia, Vanguard, and Philips Records. Deutsche Grammophon released a 12-CD box set, "The Art of Ernst Haefliger," showcasing his range and artistry. From 1971 to 1988, Haefliger shared his expertise as a teacher at the Hochschule für Musik in Munich, Germany, and later gave master classes in Zürich, Japan, and the United States.
Haefliger's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards and honors, solidifying his position as one of the leading tenors of his time.
Ernst Haefliger passed away on March 17, 2007, in Davos, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
Through his remarkable career, Ernst Haefliger embodied the essence of a true artist, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
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A renowned German opera singer and conductor, celebrated for his rich, expressive voice and masterful interpretations of opera and art song. He is particularly revered for his performances of Schubert's lieder.
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