Graeme Danby - Opera Singer
Consett born, Graeme Danby, is an operatic bass who has performed at most of the world’s leading opera houses, notably the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden and the English National Opera, as well as La Scala in Italy. He was educated at the Royal Academy of Music in London but before that at Greencroft Comprehensive School.
He is known for his strong, dramatic portrayals of characters in the basso profondo repertoire. In the 2002–2003 season, Graeme made his Glyndebourne debut as Antonio (Le nozze di Figaro), subsequently recording the role for Chandos Records. However, he is also known in the Northeast as an avid 'Toon fan' and the man who sang Blaydon Races numerous times at St James' Park. Not many people will know that Graeme is a follower of all NE Sporting teams, and previously played 'Prop' for Northern Rugby FC and Northumberland County RFC.
Graeme is proud of his local routes and is Professor of Music at Sunderland University and in 2006 both he and his wife Valerie Reid, each received an honorary Doctor of Civil Law from Northumbria University. He has great knowledge of local choirs and music performers and groups and is always keen to support them when he can.