Biography
In 2002 Salvatore Licitra achieved his breakthrough as a popular tenor at the Met by stepping in on short notice for the indisposed Luciano Pavarotti in the role of Cavaradossi in Puccini's Tosca. Many listeners had expected Pavarotti's appearance to mark his final performance, so attention focused sharply on the substitute tenor. Though the rising artist had not been slated for a Met debut until two years later, his portrayal captivated the audience and drew lavish praise from reviewers. That single opportunity instantly propelled Licitra into the center of the contemporary classical spotlight, transforming him into an overnight sensation. His initial appearance on American soil had occurred only months earlier, at the Richard Tucker Foundation Gala in November 2001. The promising trajectory ended abruptly when Licitra died in September 2011 after an accident in Sicily.
Albums
