Jon Vickers
(c) RCA Victor
Canadian tenor Jon Vickers has died at the age of 88. His family published the following message: « It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Jon Vickers, after a prolonged struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. He is survived by one sister, his five children, 11 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. His family and dearest friends remember him for his ringing laughter, warmth, and generous spirit. A man of the land who was the most at home on his farm, surrounded by nature and his family, he had an abiding search for the truths and essences of life. »
Born, October 29, 1926, in Prince Albert, Jon Vickers was one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. He had a very distinctive timbre, a heroic vocal quality and was an unforgettable interpreter of the most demanding Wagner roles. He was much sought after for Verdi and Berlioz as well.
From 1959 he collaborated with Herbert von Karajan and made many landmark recordings with him, including Tristan, Die Walküre, Otello and Fidelio.
In 1988 Vickers announced his retirement and gave his final performance in a concert version of Act II of Parsifal in Kitchener (Ontario).
