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Jerry Hadley was one of the most thoughtful singers of the late 20th century, exploring a wide range of repertoire with a special interest in contemporary works. Hadley began his career with a voice ideal for Mozart and bel canto, possessing a warmly lyrical timbre that earned him acclaim as one of the most beautiful voices since Fritz Wunderlich. Venturing into heavier roles early in his career took a noticeable toll on his voice, but Hadley's musicianship and high standards for performance served to make him one of the most interesting tenors of his generation. Hadley was interested in singing from an early age, and as a youth performed as a member of the touring show Up with People. He went to the University of Illinois to study music, where a friend persuaded him to audition for a performance of The Magic Flute. Landing the role of Tamino and enjoying great success with it, Hadley was further persuaded to take up an operatic career. Hadley's debut was at the Sarasota Opera as Lione...