Shirley-Quirk, John Stanton

Shirley-Quirk, John Stanton,

1931–2014, British bass-baritone. He began his career as a chemistry teacher, turning permanently to music in 1961. Acclaimed for his fine tone, diction, and phrasing, he was best known for the many parts composed for him by Benjamin BrittenBritten, Benjamin, Baron Britten of Aldeburgh,
1913–76, English composer. Britten's most characteristic expression is found in his vocal music, much of which was written for his partner, the tenor Sir Peter Pears.
..... Click the link for more information.
, whose English Opera Group he joined in 1964. He also specialized in works by Bach, Handel, Delius, Vaughan Williams, and Elgar, and was renowned for his performances of English art songs and oratorios. He appeared in opera houses and recital halls throughout the world, debuting at New York's Metropolitan Opera in the American premiere (1974) of Britten's Death in Venice.