Lester Lynch
Lester Lynch is a globally recognized baritone celebrated for his rich, powerful voice and commanding stage presence. Originally from Ohio, Lynch’s journey began in a church choir before he pursued formal training at Baldwin Wallace University, the New England Conservatory of Music, and the Juilliard School. Over a distinguished 30-year career, he has performed at premier venues including Teatro alla Scala, the Royal Opera House, San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera Chicago, Houston Grand Opera, and with the Berlin Philharmoniker. His vast repertoire features iconic roles such as Conte Di Luna in Il Trovatore, Tonio in Pagliacci, Wotan in Das Rheingold, Porgy in Porgy and Bess, Iago in Otello, and the title roles in Macbeth, Rigoletto, Nabucco, and Doktor Faust.
As an accomplished concert artist, Lynch has collaborated with the New York Philharmonic and the Cleveland Orchestra, among many others. An exclusive Pentatone recording artist, his discography includes major Verdi and Puccini operas alongside his solo album, On My Journey Now: Spirituals and Hymns. In 2024, he joined the faculty of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where he channels his extensive stage experience into mentoring the next generation of musicians. His dedication to education is further reflected in his master classes at institutions like Oberlin College, Washington University, and Temple University.
Lynch’s recent and upcoming engagements include an appearance with the Young People’s Chorus of New York City for an MLK celebration, the title role in Bluebeard’s Castle with New Zealand Opera, and highly anticipated concerts with Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra of Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius under Sir Simon Rattle.
Beyond his musical achievements, Lynch is a recipient of the Metropolitan Opera National Council and George London Foundation awards.