A LIFE IN BRIEF
Early life: Born in Munich in July 1969, Kaufmann began piano lessons aged eight.
Education: He began his vocal training at the University of Music and Performing Arts Munich in 1989, graduating in 1994 with distinction. Whilst studying he sang some small roles with Bavarian State Opera.
Early fame: In 1994, Kaufmann began his professional career at the Staatstheatre in Saarbrücken. His debut with the New York Met in 2006 opened doors to leading international companies including Vienna State Opera and Paris Opéra.
Roles: Kaufmann tends to specialise in powerful and dramatic ‘spinto’ tenor roles, including Don José in Bizet’s Carmen,
Cavaradossi in Puccini’s Tosca, and the title role in Verdi’s Otello.