JOSEPH HISLOP COMING

Evening Star, Issue 19712, 12 November 1927, Page 5

JOSEPH HISLOP COMING

Amongst the many romantic histories of famous singers is that of Joseph Hislop, the celebrated tenor, who is perhaps unique by reason of the fact that lie hails from a country which hitherto has had little or no share in making operatic history. He is a Scot, and the romantic traditions of his race give an added interest to tho story of his career. Born in Edinburgh, tho now famous singer commenced, on leaving school, in the photo-process and engraving business in bis native city, and although he had sung in the choir of St. Mary’s Cathedral as a boy be entertained at that time no aspirations towards operatic fame. His preference was painting, and whilst engaged at Iris business he studied in the evenings at the Edinburgh College of Art, making such excellent progress as to ripen a growing ambition to become an artist. This ambition was not to be fulfilled, however, for while attending a technical college in London sometime later he was selected to go to Sweden to demonstrate a now process of colorphotography. It was in Sweden that he reached the turning point in his career. The Swedes are a musical race, and Hislop came into touch with many who were interested in singing. At a smoko concert one night in Stockholm at which he was singing was Dr Bratt, a noted voice specialist in the city. The professor was greatly impressed by the young Scotsman’s voice, and, realising its possibilities, induced him to abandon business and take a course of study in singing. After three years in the care of Dr Bratt, Hislop was accepted as a pupil in the Royal School of Opera, an unusual honor for a foreigner. The School of Opera is attached to the Royal Opera House of Stockholm, and it was here that Hislop made his debut in 1914, singing the title role in ‘Faust.’ His success was so great Flint he was immediately engaged as principal tenor. It was after singing in 4 La Bolieme ’ at the Stockholm Royal Opera that the King of Sweden, who was present, conferred the decoration of “ Literis et Artibus ” upon him. His success in Stockholm was repeated throughout Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, where he sang the. various opera houses some 20 of the leading tenor roles. Then followed a period of study in Italy, and having gained fresh laurels at the famous “La Scala” Opera House in Milan, and at Naples, he returned to England to sing at Covent Garden, where he met immense success. Since Hislop has sung in various parts of the world, including most of the principal cities of America and Canada. Tlie purity and beauty of bis voice, which critics have likened to, Caruso’s, and his charming personality have made him a favorite wherever he Ims appeared. The supporting artist, Alberto Sciarretti, is a pianist of great reputation. Hislop comes to His Majesty's Theatre on Tuesdav, November 29.