OPERA BIO

Simon Lee, Korean-American spinto tenor is increasingly recognized on the international stage for his “heroic vocalism” and “profound affinity for the Italian Verismo tradition.” With an impressive career that bridges the major musical capitals of Asia, Europe, and the United States, Mr. Lee has become a sought-after interpreter of the most challenging spinto tenor roles in the Verdi and Puccini canons.

Simon’s technical foundation was forged in Italy, where he studied the nuances of the Italian style under the tutelage of Carlos Montané and the legendary Maestro Ubaldo Gardini. This rigorous training culminated in his debut recital at the Festival Notte Musicali Modenesi, setting the stage for a career defined by vocal power and stylistic elegance. Upon moving to the United States, he further refined his craft through the Sherrill Milnes Opera Program, benefitting from the mentorship of world-renowned icons including Sherrill Milnes, Giacomo Aragall, and Jennifer Larmore.

Simon’s North American career reached an early milestone with a prestigious Carnegie Hall debut in Haydn’s Paukenmesse. Since then, he has become a mainstay in American opera, performing leading roles such as Radamès (Aida), Manrico (Il Trovatore), Don José (Carmen), and Riccardo (Un Ballo in Maschera). Notably, he performed the role of Arvino in the Chicago premiere of Verdi’s rarely heard I Lombardi with da Corneto Opera, a testament to his versatility and musical curiosity. The post-pandemic era has seen a significant expansion of Simon’s international profile. In 2024, his portrayal of Calaf in Turandot at St. Petersburg Opera was met with sold-out houses and resounding success. This momentum carried him to Europe for the 2025 season, where he made a  landmark debut in Bayreuth, Germany, performing in a Wagner Opera Gala, and appeared as Cavaradossi (Tosca) with Opera Classica. His European presence was further solidified as a guest soloist at the Noctes Aquae Iasae Festival in Croatia. Simon’s extensive list of credits includes collaborations with Teatro Lirico D’Europa, Singapore Lyric Opera, Utah Festival Opera, and Opera North Carolina. A two-time award winner from the National Bel Canto Foundation, he is also a dedicated educator, serving on the faculty of the OperaMaya International Summer Opera Program in Mexico.

Currently based in the Chicago area, Simon Lee continues to perform at the highest levels while maintaining an active vocal studio. His upcoming season includes returns to major European venues and a continued commitment to bringing the passionate works of the Verismo opera to life.

VIDEO

Nessun Dorma / Turandot (Puccini)

Non Piangere, Liu / Turanodot (Puccini)

Wintersturme/ Die Walkure (Wagner)

La mia letizia infondere / I Lombardi (Verdi)

Recondita armonia / Tosca (Puccini)

E lucevan le stelle / Tosca (Puccini)

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