Episode 178: Quinn Kelsey

Quinn Kelsey has been called “the premier Verdi baritone of his generation” His Rigoletto has become the standard.His mastery of Verdi’s baritone roles extends far beyond Rigoletto.  He has contributed his artistry to the title roles in Macbeth, Simon Boccanegra, and Falstaff, as well as Renato in Un ballo in maschera, Il Conte di Luna in Il Trovatore, Amonasro in Aida, Germont in La traviata, and Don Carlo in Ernani. While Verdi forms the cornerstone of Kelsey’s artistry, his versatility as a performer is evident in his ability to shine in other repertoire. He has achieved great success in a number of career-defining roles, including his richly-sung Marcello in Puccini’s La bohème and his darkly compelling interpretation of Scarpia in Tosca,He made his debut at The Royal Danish Opera, singing the title role in Verdi’s Macbeth in concert and now is due to repeat the role at the Metropolitan Opera.Quinn appeared with his hometown opera company, Hawaii Opera Theatre, for the world premiere of Herb Mahelona’s Kamalehua: The Sheltering Tree.Quinn’s artistry has earned him numerous accolades, including The Metropolitan Opera’s Beverly Sills Artist Award in 2015 and the prestigious Opera News Award in 2022. He was a finalist of the Plácido Domingo Operalia Competition in 2004, and represented the United States in the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition in 2005.