23.07.2012
Nikolay Kopylov Celebrates a Creative Anniversary
People’s Artist of Russia Nikolay Kopylov is marking thirty years’ tenure at the Mikhailovsky Theatre. On 9 March, the distinguished baritone will play the part of Baron Scarpia in Tosca, one of the crowning roles of his repertoire.
Nikolay Kopylov came from Sverdlovsk (present-day Ekaterinburg) to what was then Leningrad as a young opera singer 30 years ago. He has built up a broad repertoire during his time at the Mikhailovsky Theatre (formerly known as the Maly Opera Theatre). His natural artistry and incredible stage presence allowed him to take characters such as Prince Igor, Figaro, Rigoletto, and Eugene Onegin to new heights. He can be heard today in Cavalleria rusticana (as Alfio), La traviata (as Giorgio Germont), and The Queen of Spades (as Tomsky). The singer’s thoughtful, engaging approach to chamber works has earned him the love of audiences and made him a sought-after guest at top concert venues throughout Russia.
Born in a small mining settlement on Sakhalin island, Nikolay Kopylov attended the Ural State Conservatory. He later received a graduate degree in vocal music and was the lead soloist at the Sverdlovsk Theatre of Opera and Ballet. He has been a soloist at the Mikhailovsky Theatre since 1982. In 2005, he was honoured with the title ‘People’s Artist of Russia’.
His fans’ fervent affection and co-workers’ heartfelt goodwill accompany the singer wherever he goes. Colleagues describe Nikolay Kopylov as a reliable, kind-hearted friend and credit him with being the soul of the company.
“My reputation for being sociable is just as important to me as my roles in my favourite operas”, acknowledges Kopylov. “I try to help young artists as much as I can; I never refuse them psychological or moral support. I have a great understanding for people at the beginning of their creative careers. On the one hand, youth fills you with huge ambitions, but on the other hand, it can make you feel more vulnerable, have doubts, and be unsure of yourself. I’m able to support my young colleagues, to give them useful creative advice, and help with any anxiety they may be suffering from. For my part, I draw energy from young people, so I don’t feel there’s any great distance between us when working with them”.
The Mikhailovsky Theatre company would like to congratulate Nikolay Kopylov on this exceptional anniversary and wishes him many more successful years of creativity ahead.
Nikolay Kopylov came from Sverdlovsk (present-day Ekaterinburg) to what was then Leningrad as a young opera singer 30 years ago. He has built up a broad repertoire during his time at the Mikhailovsky Theatre (formerly known as the Maly Opera Theatre). His natural artistry and incredible stage presence allowed him to take characters such as Prince Igor, Figaro, Rigoletto, and Eugene Onegin to new heights. He can be heard today in Cavalleria rusticana (as Alfio), La traviata (as Giorgio Germont), and The Queen of Spades (as Tomsky). The singer’s thoughtful, engaging approach to chamber works has earned him the love of audiences and made him a sought-after guest at top concert venues throughout Russia.
Born in a small mining settlement on Sakhalin island, Nikolay Kopylov attended the Ural State Conservatory. He later received a graduate degree in vocal music and was the lead soloist at the Sverdlovsk Theatre of Opera and Ballet. He has been a soloist at the Mikhailovsky Theatre since 1982. In 2005, he was honoured with the title ‘People’s Artist of Russia’.
His fans’ fervent affection and co-workers’ heartfelt goodwill accompany the singer wherever he goes. Colleagues describe Nikolay Kopylov as a reliable, kind-hearted friend and credit him with being the soul of the company.
“My reputation for being sociable is just as important to me as my roles in my favourite operas”, acknowledges Kopylov. “I try to help young artists as much as I can; I never refuse them psychological or moral support. I have a great understanding for people at the beginning of their creative careers. On the one hand, youth fills you with huge ambitions, but on the other hand, it can make you feel more vulnerable, have doubts, and be unsure of yourself. I’m able to support my young colleagues, to give them useful creative advice, and help with any anxiety they may be suffering from. For my part, I draw energy from young people, so I don’t feel there’s any great distance between us when working with them”.
The Mikhailovsky Theatre company would like to congratulate Nikolay Kopylov on this exceptional anniversary and wishes him many more successful years of creativity ahead.
