Jonas does Jussi

On 2 September the Swedish Royal Opera marked the 100th anniversary of Jussi Björling's birth with a televised gala concert.

Jonas Kaufmann - on top form - joined the likes of Katarina Dalayman, Lars Cleveman, Emma Vetter and Charles Castronovo to interpret some of the songs and arias Björling was best known for.

Sound and picture on these clips are excellent though sadly not quite synchronised. No undertexter either so your Swedish had better be up to scratch.

Comments

[FragendeFrau]

There is also an interview with Jonas available that was conducted in English. Unfortunately the interviewer was one of those annoying ones who asks a question and then never stops talking to hear the answer. I thought he seemed a teeny bit testy (he's usually so jovial) but I imagine he had much on his mind. It's an interesting interview and worth watching.

[Lucy]

This was actually the first time I'd heard Charles Castronovo... quite pleasant! I applaud Malena Ernman's outfit choices, but wish we'd gotten to hear her sing as well. Nice to hear Kaufmann on such good form; sounds as though his Turiddu and Canio are shaping up to be something else. Thanks for sharing, IM.

[CS]

This was a wonderful tribute, and I am glad Jonas Kaufmann sang so splendidly all the heavy things he sang. I hope he enjoyed them as much as the Swedish audience and the rest of us did. I believe this was right before he had his operation in September. I do hope he will reduce his commitments somewhat not to hurt his voice - so that he can sing for us for a long, long time!
Thank you Jonas! Thank you the Swedish Royal Opeera!