Lawrence Tibbett

Lawrence Tibbett

Lawrence Tibbett was born on November 16th, 1896

Full Name: Lawrence Mervil Tibbett
Place of Birth: Bakersfield, California, USA
Nationality: American
Occupation: Actor, Singer
Spouse: Jane Marston, Grace Mackay
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Notable Roles: The Rogue Song
Awards: Academy Award for Best Actor

A renowned baritone of the Metropolitan Opera, known for his rich voice and charismatic stage presence, starring in films and Broadway shows during the 1930s.

Written by: Sofia Garcia Sofia Garcia

Lawrence Tibbett: The Baritone with a Triumphant Voice

Lawrence Tibbett, the renowned American opera singer, recording artist, film actor, and radio personality, is best known for his powerful baritone voice and his impressive performances on the stages of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

A Diverse Career in Music and Theatre

Tibbett's career spanned over three decades, during which he sang leading roles in over 600 performances at the Met, showcasing his versatility in a wide range of musical theatre roles. One of his most notable performances was as Captain Hook in the touring production of Peter Pan.

Early Life and Training

Born on November 16, 1896, in Bakersfield, California, Tibbett grew up in Los Angeles, where he earned money by singing in church choirs and at funerals. He graduated from Manual Arts High School in 1915 and later studied in New York City with Frank La Forge.

Rise to Fame

In 1923, at the age of 26, Tibbett signed his first contract with the Metropolitan Opera, earning $60 per week. The Met mistakenly added an extra "t" to his last name on the contract, which he decided to keep as his stage name. Over the years, he built a hugely successful career, impressing audiences with his outstanding voice, immaculate musicianship, and strong stage presence.

Notable Roles and Performances

Tibbett's repertoire included iconic roles such as Valentin in Charles Gounod's Faust, Silvio and later Tonio in Ruggero Leoncavallo's Pagliacci, and the King's Herald in Richard Wagner's Lohengrin. His performance as Ford in Giuseppe Verdi's Falstaff earned him national recognition.

Awards and Honors

Tibbett received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music and theatre. He was awarded two honorary degrees, one from Harvard University and another from the University of Southern California.

Legacy and Impact

Lawrence Tibbett's legacy extends beyond his impressive career. He inspired a new generation of opera singers and continues to be celebrated for his contribution to the world of music and theatre. His powerful voice and captivating stage presence remain an inspiration to artists and audiences alike.

Personal Life and Milestones

Tibbett married his wife, Grace Mackay Smith, in 1919, and they had one son, Richard. During World War I, he served in the Merchant Marine, and later found employment singing as a prologue to silent movies at the Grauman Million Dollar Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

Timeline
1896
Born in Bakersfield, California
Lawrence Tibbett was born on November 16, 1896, in Bakersfield, California, to a musical family.
1923
Debuted at the Metropolitan Opera
Tibbett debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, which marked the beginning of his singing career.
1927
Starred in The Rogue Song
He starred in the movie The Rogue Song, which showcased his acting and singing talents.
1939
Won the Academy Award
Tibbett won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The Rogue Song.
1960
Died in New York City
Tibbett died on July 15, 1960, in New York City, at the age of 63.
Lawrence Tibbett

Lawrence Tibbett Quiz

What was Lawrence Tibbett known for in the Metropolitan Opera?

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FAQ
What was Lawrence Tibbetts career as a singer?
Lawrence Tibbett was a renowned American baritone who performed with the Metropolitan Opera for over 20 years, singing over 300 performances.
What were Lawrence Tibbetts most famous roles?
Lawrence Tibbetts most famous roles included the title role in The Barber of Seville, Don Giovanni, and Scarpia in Tosca.
Did Lawrence Tibbett also act in films?
Yes, Lawrence Tibbett appeared in several films, including The Rogue Song and New Moon, which showcased his singing talents.
What awards did Lawrence Tibbett win for his singing?
Lawrence Tibbett won several awards for his singing, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
What was Lawrence Tibbetts legacy?
Lawrence Tibbetts legacy as a singer and actor continues to inspire new generations of performers, and his recordings remain highly regarded.

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