Jobin (1906-1974) was the world’s tenor of choice for the francophone repertoire in the 1930’s and 40’s.
Here he is as Pinkerton.
He debut in the high-baritone role of Tybalt, in Gounod’s “Romeo & Juliette” at the Paris Opera in 1930. This was a grand success, and he swiftly graduated to leading tenor roles. These included Faust, des Grieux, Romeo, Don Jose, Pelleas, Admetus, Hoffman, Gerald, Werther, Julien, Vasco da Gama, Tonio, Samson, and the Berlioz character namesake, Raoul.
Here he is LIVE at the Met, in Manon.
Jobin had an easy top and a rich timbre. His mellifluous French style was impeccable. He was a member of the Metropolitan Opera roster for a decade. While Jobin did not gravitate toward the famous German, Italian, or British opera houses, he forged a healthy relationship with the Teatro Colon,Teatro Municipal in Rio de Janeiro, and Mexico City.
His wife, Anna Malefant, though not of his calibre, was a soprano, and sometimes sang at his side.
Jobin also was quite successful in a few non-French roles, notably Canio, Pinkerton, Lohengrin, Walther, and Cavaradossi.
His was a voice that had mettle, yet was also entirely moldable to the graceful lines that permeate French music. He was always lyric at the core, but able to produce dramatic impetus.
Here is a soundbite of the final moments of Carmen from his studio recording; Solange Michel is his Carmen, and Cluytens conducts.
Jobin was also a respected coach; his students include Huguette Tourangeau and Colette Boky. He is a Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur, by France
His recording legacy includes a Romeo, an unrivalled Hoffmann, Admetus (alongside Flagstad’s Alceste!), a live Met Opera Fille du Regiment, and a very authentic Don Jose. Preiser has pressed a disc of Jobin gems.
