John Brownlee – Portrait

John Brownlee (1900-1969)came from a musical family. His father had a fine voice and when John was only six taught him the cornet and played in the Geelong Municipal Band. He went on to develop one of the finest baritone voices of his time. John went to England in 1923 and studied in Rome and Paris. He performed at Covent Garden and the Paris Opera and recital and concert engagements in Europe. He sang more than 90 parts and roles in opera, operetta, oratorio and musicals in a career which spanned more than three decades.

Part of Warren Fahey’s Yesterday’s Australia series.

From the stages of the metropolitan opera in New York, Milan, Paris and London comes the rare recordings of Adelaide singer John Brownlee. Little known in his native country this outstanding opera singer has been returned to the stage with this collection of songs from major opera recordings. Includes Don Giovanni, Salome, The Lord’s Prayer. Also singing with Brownlee are Dame Nellie Melba and Mirelle Bertioni. John Amadio accompanies on piano.

Track Listing:

1. Comme Un Pale Fleur

2. Salome! Demande Au Prisonnier (Herodiade)

3. Vision Fugitive (Herodiade)

4. Duo De La Source (w. Mirelle Berthon)

5. Dite Alle Giovine (w. Nellie Melba)

6. In The Gloaming

7. Chanson Du Toreador

8. A Maiden Or A Sweetheart (Die Zauberflote)

9. The Lord’s Prayer

10. Danny Deever

11. What The Red Haired Bosun Says

12. Turn Ye To Me

13. Sea Fever

14. Danny Deever

15. La Ci Darem La Mano (Don Giovanni)

16. Fin Ch’an Dal Vino (Don Giovanni)

17. Tu M’invitasti A Cena (Don Giovanni)

18. Ah Mimi Piu Non Torni