Robert Savoie facts for kids
Robert Savoie was a famous French-Canadian opera singer. He was known for his deep voice, called a baritone. He was born on April 21, 1927, and passed away on September 14, 2007.
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Early Life and Training
Robert Savoie was born in Montreal, Canada. He loved music and began his singing journey early. He studied singing for five years with a talented teacher named Pauline Donalda.
First Steps in Opera
In 1948, Robert Savoie made his first public appearance. This was with the Montreal Opera Guild. He sang a smaller part in an opera called Samson et Dalila. For the next four years, he continued to sing supporting roles with this company.
Studying in Italy
To improve his skills, Robert Savoie traveled to Milan, Italy. This city is famous for its opera. He studied there with a teacher named Antonio Narducci. In Italy, he made his first European performance. He sang a main role, Scarpia, in the opera Tosca at the Teatro Nuovo.
A Busy Career in Canada
After returning to Montreal in 1954, Robert Savoie became very busy. He sang on radio and television. He also performed often with the Montreal Opera Guild.
Famous Opera Roles
Robert Savoie sang many important roles in operas. Some of these included:
- Rodrigo in Don Carlos
- Figaro in Le nozze di Figaro and Il barbiere di Siviglia
- Leporello in Don Giovanni
- Marcello in La bohème
- Sharpless in Madama Butterfly
He also performed in other Canadian cities like Québec City and Ottawa. He even sang at the Stratford Festival.
Performing Around the World
Robert Savoie's talent took him to many famous stages around the world.
Singing in London
In 1961, he signed a big five-year contract. This was with the Royal Opera House in London, England. He first sang as Schaunard in La Bohème there. Later, he took on the main role in Rigoletto. He also performed with other British opera companies. These included the Sadler's Wells and the Scottish Opera in Glasgow.
Tours in France
He also toured throughout France. He performed in an opera by Massenet called Don Quichotte. He sang alongside another Canadian singer, Joseph Rouleau. Robert Savoie also took part in a BBC production. This was Verdi's original French version of Don Carlos. It was recorded in 1972 and broadcast in 1973.
Performances in the United States
In 1971, Robert Savoie sang in America. He performed in the opera Falstaff (opera) in Washington. This was for the opening of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. In 1972, he sang in La Damnation de Faust at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Later Years and Legacy
After 1981, Robert Savoie mostly gave recitals. These are concerts where a singer performs alone. He also started teaching. He gave special "master classes" to young singers. One notable place he taught was the Yale School of Music.
In 2002, Robert Savoie received a high honor. He was made an Officer of the Order of Canada. This award recognizes Canadians who have made a big difference. He passed away in Montreal.
