Tenor Nathan Granner

American tenor Nathan Granner is celebrated for his eloquent voice and commanding stage presence, traversing from the lyrical narratives of classical opera to the bold frontiers of contemporary composition. His recent portrayals of Mario Cavaradossi in Tosca with Opera Orlando and Don José in Carmen with Opera Santa Barbara, alongside his profound depiction of Korey Wise in the Pulitzer Prize-winning opera The Central Park Five with Detroit Opera, Portland Opera and Long Beach Opera attest to his versatility and commitment to bringing intricate characters to life with emotional authenticity. 

Granner’s 2025-2026 season will include a new film adaptation of Gordon Getty’s Plump Jack, the soundtrack of which was recorded in 2024, and a studio recording of Getty’s Scare Pair with Rork Music.

In the studio, Granner has completed recording two albums for the prestigious Pentatone label, further expanding his already rich discography. These releases represent his deep-seated respect for the classical canon, as well as his enthusiasm for exploring modern opera’s expressive new frontiers. Ombre di Luce features a collection of resplendent classical epoch arias for tenor, accompanied by the Orchestre Philharmonique de Marseille and showcasing his mastery of the traditional repertoire. The other, a new version of Gordon Getty’s Goodbye, Mr. Chips, promises to be a significant addition to his discography following the positive critical and public reception to the 2021 film adaptation of the same opera. 

In the spring of 2024, Granner ventured into groundbreaking territory. He took on the multifaceted role of Bobby Riggs in Laura Karpman and Gail Collins’ Balls, a bold opera capturing the essence of the controversial “Battle of the Sexes” 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and the “semi-infamous” Riggs. Simultaneously, he portrayed Hans Sachs’ Trainer in David T. Little’s Vinkensport, or The Finch Opera, further solidifying his reputation for extraordinary versatility.

The remainder of his 2024-2025 season included Rodolfo in La bohème with Tacoma Opera, a return to both Portland Opera and The Shining as Stuart Ullman/Delbert Grady, a reprise of Korey Wise in Detroit Opera’s The Central Park Five and a role debut as Radames in Dayton Opera’s production of Aïda.

Critical acclaim for Granner’s instrument and artistry abounds, characterized by praises for his “clear and sweet lyrical tone” and his ability to connect with audiences through profound emotional depth. His upcoming roles and projects continue to stoke anticipation and excitement, promising future seasons rich with artistic exploration, vibrant performances, and a passion for connecting with audiences old and new alike.

Granner’s career, marked by an enduring presence in the operatic world, exemplifies the modern tenor. He embraces traditional operatic expression while venturing into novel territory with artistic zeal and adaptability. His work is not only a testament to the transformative power of music, but also a harbinger of its future, embodying the artistic innovation and audience engagement that are so deeply cherished in the current musical landscape of opera and classical music.