Background & Synopsis
FM Opera makes a new commitment to the presentation of art song and has chosen Franz Schubert's immortal song-cycle Winterreise, sung by Joshua Kohl, following his acclaimed appearance in last season's Turandot. Mr. Kohl's heroic tenor voice is perfectly suited for this one-person ode to love, both lost and unrequited. The 24 songs will be illustrated by local artists in winters capes and projections. We imagine this presentation will sell out very quickly!
Artists
Joshua Kohl, tenor
Renowned for his “firm technique and dynamic phrasing” (The Baltimore Sun) and “strong, ringing” tone (The Washington Post), American tenor Joshua Kohl has captivated audiences worldwide with his powerful performances. MusicWeb International praised his artistry in Franck’s Hulda, stating, “Kohl may well be the finest singer in the opera and thus the greatest vocal strength on this recording.”
Joshua’s career highlights include roles such as Des Grieux in Manon, Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly, and Lenski in Eugene Onegin. His tenure as an ensemble member at Theater Freiburg featured acclaimed performances in Falstaff, The Turn of the Screw, and Das Lied von der Erde. He has also made an impact on the U.S. operatic scene with appearances in Carmen and Il Barbiere di Siviglia at Fargo-Moorhead Opera, among others.
During the pandemic, Joshua embraced innovative online projects, including Tales from a Safe Distance with the Decameron Opera Coalition and a film adaptation of Jonathan Dove’s Flight with Seattle Opera.
Earlier milestones include standout performances as Rodolfo in La Bohème (Pittsburgh Opera, National Theater in Belgrade), Alfred in Die Fledermaus (Sarasota Opera), and Nemorino in L’elisir d’amore (Virginia Opera). He earned accolades for his portrayal of Macduff in Macbeth (Utah Opera), described as the “emotional high point of the evening” (The Salt Lake Tribune).
Joshua’s concert repertoire includes Mahler’s Das Lied von der Erde, Handel’s Messiah, and Carmina Burana, where his comedic timing as the roasting swan earned acclaim. He has collaborated with esteemed orchestras, including the Philharmonisches Orchester Freiburg, the New Jersey Symphony, and the Hartford Symphony.
A National Semi-Finalist in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, Joshua holds degrees from the University of Cincinnati and Boston University and an Artist Diploma from Yale University. Beyond the stage, he has appeared in recitals and festivals globally, showcasing his versatility and passion for his craft.
Joshua Kohl continues to enthrall audiences with his artistry, solidifying his reputation as a leading tenor of his generation.
Carl-Martin Buttgereit, pianist
German pianist Carl-Martin Buttgereit completed his studies at the esteemed Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen and later honed his craft in Berlin, Vienna, and Zurich, graduating with distinction.
He studied under renowned teachers such as Klaus Hellwig, Roberto Szidon, and the legendary Karl-Heinz Kämmerling. Carl-Martin also received prestigious scholarships from the Folkwang Foundation and the Richard Wagner Foundation, further affirming his exceptional talent.
A passionate soloist and chamber musician, Carl-Martin gained invaluable experience through numerous performance opportunities during his studies. His collaborations have included international masterclasses, competitions, and performances with Bavarian Radio at the International ARD Music Competition in Munich, where he had the privilege of playing alongside the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra.
Carl-Martin’s performances have taken him across Europe, South Africa, and Brazil. In 2015, he performed with acclaimed soprano Angelika Kirchschlager (Vienna State Opera) at the international music festival “Musica em Trancoso.”
In 2018, Carl-Martin partnered with soprano Sibylla Rubens and Hessian Broadcasting to record the album Erwartung, featuring works by Frankfurt composer Anton Urspruch and his mentors, Joachim Raff and Franz Liszt. The recording received critical acclaim and was named one of FONO FORUM's top new releases (FONO FORUM 2/19).
Carl-Martin’s artistry is documented through television, radio, and CD recordings with leading German broadcasters, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Marjorie Schlossman, visual artist