THE LIFE OF JOHN BOYDEN John Boyden was a native of Stratford, Ontario who became an internationally famous lieder singer. In his illustrious career he went from being a member of a local church boy choir to a prize-winning master singer who performed in the music capitals of the world. Although he was afflicted with a fatal disease, he courageously chose to sing as long as he could. “But he lived long enough to assist Robin Philips’ Stratford Choir, helping from a wheelchair and moving the audience to tears. He died shortly after.” (Tom Patterson. First Stage.) It is this courage and talent that “Voice Of An Angel” celebrates. PRODUCTION NOTES “Voice Of An Angel” is a modern chamber opera celebrating the life and talent of Stratford’s world-famous lieder singer, John Boyden. It is written as a song cycle in one continuous movement. it should be stressed that “Voice Of An Angel” is not a biographical documentary but was poetically inspired by John’s Life. John Boyden’s life is described by Tom Patterson in his book, “First Stage.” However it should be noted that each one of the linked songs refers to an actual event in John Boyden’s life. Before each song there is a brief description of the event to which the song refers. (Notes by librettist, Charles Mountford)
