Description

FRANCESCO GIUNION MARIO GUARDABASSI (PERUGIA, ITALY, 4 FEBRUARY, 1867 – PALM BEACH, FLORIDA, USA, 17 MAY, 1952)

Originally a painter, Guardabassi transitioned to singing after studying in Italy. In 1903, he made his debut as a baritone at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, performing Silvio in R. Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci alongside Enrico Caruso, Marcella Sembrich, and Antonio Scotti. During the 1903–1904 season, he appeared in various American opera houses, including those in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, and Boston, primarily in comprimario baritone roles.

After approximately five years, Guardabassi shifted to performing as a tenor, focusing on principal tenor roles. He achieved success at the Chicago Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera of Philadelphia. His favorite role was Don José in G. Bizet’s Carmen.

Chronology of some appearances

1903 New York Teatro Metropolitan Pagliacci (Silvio)

1910 Chicago Civic Opera House Carmen (Don Josè)

1911 Chicago Civic Opera House Romeo et Juliette (Romeo)

1912 Philadelphia Teatro Metropolitan Carmen (Don Josè)

TRACKLIST

1. Carmen (Bizet) Il fior J. 404 Lyrophon
2. Cavalleria Rusitacana (Mascagni) Siciliana J. 403 Lyrophon
3. Mattinata (Leoncavallo) J. 405 Lyrophon
4. Trovatore (Verdi) Ah si, ben mio J. 407 Lyrophon
5. Tosca (Puccini) E lucevan le stelle J. 401 Lyrophon