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Samoan Tenor's Spiteful Rise to Opera Stardom
12 Feb
Summary
- Tenor Pene Pati pursued opera out of spite after being told it was unlikely for a Polynesian.
- Pati's career launched with a last-minute replacement in 'Roméo et Juliette' in Paris.
- He is now booked by top opera houses through 2030.
Samoan tenor Pene Pati initially pursued opera out of spite, after being advised it was an unlikely career for a Polynesian. Now 38, he is a celebrated figure in the opera world, with bookings extending to 2030. His journey began in New Zealand, where he was initially cautioned against a singing career.
Pati's significant break came on December 13, 2021, when he replaced a singer on short notice for the opening of Gounod's 'Roméo et Juliette' at Paris' Opéra Comique. This event served as a major springboard for his career in Europe and America.
Born in Samoa and later moving to New Zealand, Pati's path included singing in an Auckland choir and studying computer science before dedicating himself to music. He studied vocal performance in Cardiff and formed the trio Sol3 Mio with his brother and cousin.
Pati's international career saw him join the San Francisco Opera's Merola Program in 2013. He met his future wife, soprano Amina Edris, during auditions. He achieved second place in the 2015 Operalia competition and later joined the San Francisco Opera's Adler Fellows program.
His performances have since graced prestigious venues including the Paris Opera, Vienna State Opera, London's Royal Opera, and New York's Metropolitan Opera. Pati is known for his passionate performances and his commitment to engaging with younger artists, recently holding workshops for aspiring singers.
