Langdon, Michael

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Langdon, Michael [ Birtles, Frank] (b Wolverhampton, 1920; d Hove, 1991). Eng. bass-baritone. Joined CG ch. 1948. Début CG 1950 (Nightwatchman in The Olympians, in Manchester). Prin. bass at ROH 1957–77. NY Met 1964. Created roles of Lieut. Ratcliffe in Billy Budd (1951), Recorder of Norwich in Gloriana (1953), He-Ancient in The Midsummer Marriage (1955), the Doctor in We Come to the River (1976). Sang Ochs over 100 times worldwide. Final appearances CG 1985 (Frank in Die Fledermaus). Dir., Nat. Opera Studio, 1978–86. CBE 1973.