John’s repertoire in a wide range of styles has given him a reputation as a dynamic and versatile artist. John was last seen singing the baritone role in Vaughan Williams, “A Sea Symphony”, with the Mid Columbia Orchestra. Before that he played the part of Adolpho in Tacoma Musical Playhouse’s production of “The Drowsy Chaperone”. He received rave reviews for his portrayal of Tonio in Spokane Opera’s 2010 production of “I Pagliacci”. Prior to that he was a featured soloist in Spokane Opera’s Gala New Year’s Eve event, “Diamonds and Divas”, with world renowned soprano, Jane Eaglen. Upcoming performances include the baritone soloist in Vaughan Williams, “Hodie” with the Federal Way Chorale in December 2011.
John portrayed Joseph in Andrew T Miller’s, “The Birth of Christ”, Easter 2009 in Rome narrated by actors James Caviezel, Louis Gossett, Jr., and Michael York. He also performed the parts of Zechariah and Joseph in “The Birth of Christ” in the 2006 Dublin recording narrated by Liam Neeson. This was released by Sony Masterworks on DVD and CD during the 2007 holiday season and was also seen across the USA on PBS. John made his Carnegie Hall debut Christmas 2007, performing selections from “The Birth of Christ”.
John started his opera career as a resident artist at the Portland Opera and then went on to perform in main stage productions. Some of his favorites include such roles as Marcello in “La Boheme”, Danilo in “The Merry Widow”, Valentine in “Faust”, Frank in “Die Fledermaus”, and Figaro in “The Barber of Seville”.
John has performed extensively on the theatre stage including over a dozen shows at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre including “Mame” with Juliet Prowse, “Kismet” with Patrice Munsel, “Camelot” with Noel Harrison, “The Sound of Music” with Terrence Mann, and “Sweeney Todd” with Allen Fitzpatrick. Some of his favorite roles include Anthony in “Sweeney Todd”, Gaylord Ravenal in “Showboat”, Billy Bigelow in “Carousel”, and the Pirate King in “Pirates of Penzance”.
John also enjoys a career as a concert soloist. His reputation for his command of the baritone role in Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” has taken him from Chicago to Spokane and to regular New Year’s Eve performances at Seattle’s prestigious 5th Avenue Theatre. He has appeared in a nationally televised PBS special, “Voices Across America” with Paul Sorvino.
John has won many regional and national competitions and awards including being a 1990 Metropolitan Opera auditions finalist and a 1990 San Francisco Opera Merola Regional winner. He has also been a Seattle Mariners National Anthem favorite, singing at over seventy-five games in the last six years. John graduated from Whitworth College in music with an emphasis on Vocal Performance. From there he studied with master voice teacher William Eddy for over 14 years. John now resides in Milton, WA, with his beautiful wife Sharon.
For further information on Mr. Cooper, please visit:
www.johnbcooper.com