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Claude Got (22 December 1906 – 9 June 1940) was a French bass opera singer who performed at major opera houses, including the Paris Opera and Opéra-Comique during the 1920s and 1930s. He died as a volunteer medic during the Battle of Croutoy in World War II.

Early Life and Education

Paul André Claude Got was born on December 22, 1906, in Paris. After initially studying law, Got's vocal talent was recognized, and he was encouraged to audition for the Paris Conservatory. He entered the Conservatory on November 28, 1926, and graduated in July 1928, earning three first prizes in singing, Opéra-Comique, and opera, along with the prestigious Osiris Prize. During his studies, he performed King Philip II's monologue from Don Carlos as one of his competition pieces.

Career

Got made his professional operatic debut in 1928 at the Paris Opera in a production of La Traviata. His true breakthrough came on September 25, 1929, with a performance as Boris Godunov. This portrayal won him immediate acclaim, with Le Soir noting his "immense presence and commanding voice." The paper hailed him as "a rising star, whose name will soon be associated with greatness."

Got’s reputation grew rapidly, and by 1931, he was performing in major roles at the Opéra-Comique, debuting as Comte des Grieux in Manon. Critics appreciated his ability to combine vocal power with strong acting skills. A review in Comoedia from this period lauded his "dignified yet emotional portrayal" of characters, emphasizing his range from tender moments to fierce confrontations on stage.

In 1934, Got took on the role of Dom Basile in Le Barbier de Séville, a performance that attracted much attention. According to a review from L'Ouest-Éclair, Got’s Basilio "departed from classical interpretations," bringing a fresh and charismatic energy to the role. The critic described how Got "struck the spectators immediately," adding that "his voice, a deep and resonant bass, filled the room, and his interpretation enchanted the audience with its originality and dynamism." This bold and unconventional approach to Basilio helped solidify his reputation as one of the most innovative performers of his time.

One of Got’s most memorable performances came in January 1939 when he portrayed Nilakantha in Lakmé at the Opéra-Comique. A review in Excelsior praised his performance for its "emotional depth and superb vocal control," calling him "the heart of the production." Got's ability to convey both the spiritual and paternal aspects of the character deeply impressed audiences and critics alike.

Got performed abroad as well, including appearances at the Liceu in Barcelona in 1930 and at the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires in 1938.

Notable Roles and Performances

Got's repertoire was diverse, with notable performances in major operas. Some of his most memorable roles include:

- Boris Godunov in Mussorgsky's Boris Godunov

- Mephistopheles in Gounod's Faust: In a 1933 review, L'Ouest-Éclair described him as "incarnating Mephistopheles with a devilish charisma, his booming voice sending chills through the audience." The paper noted that Got’s acting "elevated the performance, as his every gesture and expression perfectly embodied the malevolent charm of the character."

- Dom Basile in Le Barbier de Séville by Rossini: Got’s portrayal of Dom Basile in 1934 was especially praised for its originality and humor. According to L'Ouest-Éclair: "M. Claude Got succeeded in this feat... departing from the traditional line of interpretation, he distinguished himself by seeking a personal interpretation that captivated the audience from the first glance." The review added that "Got delivered all the eccentricities of the role, both vocally and in his gestures, showcasing his natural talent."

- Nilakantha in Lakmé by Delibes: Got was highly praised for his portrayal of Nilakantha in Lakmé. The Excelsior review of January 27, 1939, emphasized his "deep, resonant bass voice" that brought out the character's "dignity and sorrow." His performance "imbued the character with an emotional gravitas that profoundly moved the audience."

- Taras Bulba in Marcel Samuel-Rousseau's Tarass Boulba: A review in Le Figaro described Got's portrayal as "a masterclass in dramatic intensity," highlighting his "commanding stage presence and richly textured bass voice."

Other significant roles include Ramon in Gounod's Mireille, Priam in Berlioz's Les Troyens, and Mathis in Erlanger's Le Juif Polonais.

Radio Broadcasts

Got's voice was not only heard on stage but also over the airwaves. He frequently performed on Radio Paris and other stations during the 1930s, reaching a wider audience beyond the opera house. His radio performances helped solidify his reputation as one of the leading basses of his generation. A 1935 broadcast of Faust was particularly well received, with listeners praising the power and clarity of Got’s voice.

Military Service and Death

When World War II broke out, Got returned from his international tours to serve his country. He served as a Corporal in the 22e SIM (Military Nursing Section), specifically in GBD - Heavy Surgical Ambulance 413. On June 9, 1940, during the Battle of Croutoy, Got remained behind with other stretcher-bearers to care for wounded soldiers despite an evacuation order. They were killed at close range by German forces. Got was initially buried in the Place de l'Église in Croutoy, with a simple wooden cross bearing his name and the number 2681. He was posthumously awarded the Croix de Guerre with silver star.

Legacy

Got's colleagues at the Opéra-Comique placed a bronze medallion in his honor in the Artists' Lounge, created by Louis Morel. Although Got never made commercial recordings, private recordings made by his father were preserved. These recordings were featured in a radio tribute broadcast on June 18, 1947.