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Take Me to the Opera

Series 2

Kaufmann Unveiled

Duration: 27 minutes

First broadcast: on BBC Parliament HDLatest broadcast: on BBC News Channel HD

Available for years

Zeinab Badawi travels to Munich in Germany to meet the world's top tenor Jonas Kaufmann. He draws legions of adoring fans wherever he performs, is the most bankable opera star and his appearances are always a sell-out. What makes Jonas Kaufmann so special? Zeinab finds out about his journey to global fame from modest beginnings growing up on a housing development in Munich. She hears about the pressures and sacrifices involved in becoming one of the greatest singers in operatic history, as well as the opinions of those who know him best like his friend and biographer Thomas Voight, on how Kaufmann copes with the high expectations thrust upon him. Kaufmann speaks frankly about his life and career, and how it is tough for anyone to stay at the top of their game. We also hear what advice he has for young tenors embarking on their careers, and how he believes opera can make itself fit for the future. Show less

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