Simon Estes Gives Gratitude To God For His Vocal Gifts

A 1990 recording from Philips Classics
featuring the bass-baritone giving praise.

"Estes gives full credit to God for his voice and success. His mother and an older sister also had incredible voices. His sister played piano and the family listened to classical music when he was a child.... 'We have very special gifts and talents from God,' Estes says of himself and his fellow opera singers. The ability to project their voices, and fill large opera houses, without the assistance of microphones, requires "very special vocal cords.' Estes said he cares for his vocal cords by avoiding alcohol, tobacco, drugs and by thanking God every day for his gifts. 'I really give the Lord credit,' Estes said....Throughout his illustrious career, Estes has performed for kings and queens, presidents and other world leaders. Three years ago, Estes was asked to perform during the grand finale concert of the World Cup soccer tournament in South Africa. He was called there to perform, Estes said, and while in Africa, God had another mission for him. It was while he was in South Africa that Estes learned that one million children in Africa die of malaria each year. Of all of the deaths from malaria in the world, 90 percent occur in Africa. Every 30 seconds, someone dies. In most cases, the disease is contracted through mosquito bites. 'It's been heavy on my heart for quite some time,' Estes said. He has set a goal, with his foundation, to purchase one million mosquito nets to save African children. He is receiving assistance from the United Nations Foundation." [Source] Watch a video profile of Mr. Estes after the jump.

Simon Estes the Meistersinger

(Photo: Rick Tibbott/Courier)

High school students will have an opportunity to work with opera star Simon Estes during this year's Meistersinger Choral Festival at Wartburg College. More than 300 high school vocalists from 50 high schools are expected to participate in the one-day festival on Jan. 15. The finale concert, at 7 p.m. in Neumann Auditorium, will feature Estes, the festival chorus, and the Wartburg Choir, Ritterchor, Castle Singers, St. Elizabeth Chorale and Chapel Choir. Admission for the public is $5.

Simon Estes grew up in Iowa and was a high school vocalist in his hometown of Centerville. Estes went on to study at the University of Iowa and Juilliard and became a world-renowned opera star. He serves as a distinguished professor and artist-in-residence at Wartburg.
[Source]