Legendary Cheltenham opera singer remembered in heart-warming tributes
Summary
World famous soprano singer Dame Felicity Lott has been remembered following her death. The opera singer from Cheltenham died on May 15 after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, the BBC reports. Felicity’s operatic career began in 1974 as Seleuce in Handel’s Tolomeo at the City of London Festival.
Details
Her career spanned decades, singing works by composers like Richard Strauss, Schubert and Mozart and, in 1996, Felicity was honoured by Elizabeth II as a Dame. Following her death, operatic institutions across the country and beyond shared tributes to the renowned singer.
Glyndebourne, based in Sussex, said it was “deeply saddened” to hear of the soprano’s death, describing her as a “a beloved artist and true friend to Glyndebourne”. The opera house said: “Felicity made her Glyndebourne debut in 1976 singing the role of Countess in Strauss’s Capriccio on Tour.
She returned time and again over four decades, bringing her extraordinary artistry and warmth to some of opera’s most cherished roles. As an ambassador of Glyndebourne’s legacy scheme, Felicity championed the future of the artform with the same generosity she brought to everything she did. “This season, five of her iconic costumes are on display in our Organ Room – a fitting tribute to a remarkable career.
In October they will be auctioned by Kerry Taylor Auctions in aid of Friends of Sussex Hospices, a cause she cared about deeply. Our thoughts are with Felicity’s family and friends during this time.” Music at Royal Holloway, where Felicity studied, said: “She was one of the most beloved sopranos of her generation and a cherished member of the Royal Holloway, University of London community.
While others have already shared the announcement, we wanted to take a moment to remember and celebrate her very special connection to us.” Sharing a tribute on Facebook, the post continued: “For years, she inspired our students not only through that support but through her artistry.
Her appearances alongside the Choir of Royal Holloway, her masterclasses and her performance visits were formative moments for so many of our young musicians.
She gave her time, her wisdom and her inimitable musical spirit freely, always with the grace and humour that made Flott so special.” The English National Opera said: “Everyone at English National Opera is deeply saddened to learn of the death of soprano Dame Felicity Lott, known for her exceptional voice, unique connection to sung text and a captivating presence that enchanted audiences worldwide.