bio //
Tenor Bernard Holcomb stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of opera, celebrated for his "delicate and flexible" voice (OperaWire) and the "appealing sweetness and clarity" that characterize his tone (New York Times). Hailed by Katy Walsh of Chicago Theater Beat as a beacon at Lyric Opera of Chicago, Holcomb's artistry evokes the essence of opera's enchantment.
The 2023/24 season embarks on a resounding note as Bernard steps onto the stage of the Metropolitan Opera, debuting in Terence Blanchard's stirring creation, Fire Shut Up In My Bones. Simultaneously, his maiden appearance with Eugene Opera unfolds, where he assumes the role of Alfredo in Verdi's timeless masterpiece, La Traviata. With these triumphant debuts, he continues to affirm his place among the opera elite.
Holcomb's return to the Metropolitan Opera this fall signifies an extended role encompassing the Street and Elijah covers in Anthony Davis's impactful production, X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X. This multi-dimensional endeavor underscores his versatility and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
As the orchestras' melodies intertwine with his voice, Bernard's concert performances showcase his prowess. His interpretation of monumental compositions like Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 alongside St. John the Divine, the eloquent Magnificat by Bach, and Mozart’s Mass in C Minor with Musica Sacra reaffirm his musical diversity.
An African American Requiem remains a poignant thread in his journey, showcasing his artistry with the Resonance Ensemble and the Oregon Symphony. His collaboration with the Harlem Gospel Choir has touched audiences across Europe, resonating across cultures and languages.
Holcomb's harmonious alliance with esteemed orchestras endures. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra once again welcomed him to present the enthralling Lush Life: Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Michigan Opera Theatre embraced his contribution to their rendition of X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X, while his dynamic versatility shone through as The Dancing Master in Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos with Lakes Area Music Festival.
Dancing in the Street: The Music of Motown is an embodiment of his unique energy, reigniting classics for audiences with the Buffalo Philharmonic, Greensboro Symphony, and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.
Recent milestones shape his journey, including his portrayal of Captain Leadbetter in the world premiere of Emerson Eads’ Princess Sophia with Project Orpheus, his impactful Carnegie Hall debut, and his title role debut as Rossini’s Otello in NYC. His captivating presence graced the Dresden Semperoper in Porgy and Bess, adding to his list of international accomplishments.
Diverse roles and collaborations punctuate Holcomb's path, resonating with audiences across genres. His achievements encompass appearances in Company, Sweeney Todd, and Rent, as well as international tours of Porgy and Bess.
An alumnus of Lyric Opera’s Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, his journey showcased roles including Ernesto in Don Pasquale and Rodolfo in La bohème. During his tenure, he showcased his talent in main stage performances and covered pivotal roles.
Holcomb's poise shines on concert and recital stages, his impact felt through memorable performances with orchestras like the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and more.
A winner of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions (Michigan District), Bernard's musical journey originates from Detroit, and he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music.
With a trail of accolades, resonant performances, and a dedication that knows no bounds, Bernard Holcomb's artistic odyssey continues to enrich the world of opera and music.
mentions //
"...endearing presence on stage..." – Theater Jones
Dancing in the Street: The Music of Motown – "Bernard Holcomb is an affectionate and conscious steward of the material. He’s an endearing presence on stage, with a control that must stem from his operatic background. With a bright rounded lyric baritone, he finesses James Brown’s "It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World" [...] and provides the evening’s emotional highlight with a lovely interpretation of “Song for You,” as performed by Donny Hathaway."
__________
"...warm tenor voice imbued [...] quiet dignity and down-to-earth humanity." – LA Times
The Love Potion – "The solid cast was led by Bernard Holcomb, whose warm tenor voice imbued the tormented Tristan with quiet dignity and down-to-earth humanity."
__________
"...appealing sweetness and clarity to his tone..." – New York Times
Otello – “…there was an appealing sweetness and clarity to his tone…In the course of the evening his voice gained vibrancy and intensity, matching his character’s descent into manipulated madness.”
__________
"...open, vibrant instrument..." – Cadenza
Owen Wingrave – "...as Lechmere, tenor Bernard Holcomb is given a lot to do with his open, vibrant instrument."
__________
"...the pleasure he draws from his art is always bracing." – New City Stage
The Emperor of Atlantis & The Clever One – "Joy bounces off tenor Bernard Holcomb like a skylight beacon accidentally aimed at an individual instead of a cloud, and even when playing a sad moment, the pleasure he draws from his art is always bracing."