Tenor Samuel Downes is an emerging dramatic voice from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, now based in London. He is currently a Harewood Artist with English National Opera, supported by the Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation, and is developing an international career distinguished by vibrant stage presence and lyrical intensity. Samuel completed a Bachelor of Music with First Class Honours at the University of Auckland, studying with Dr Te Oti Rakena, where he appeared in productions including Ravel’s L’Enfant et les sortilèges and Strauss’ Die Fledermaus. His early musical formation was shaped by extensive choral work with the University of Auckland Chamber Choir, Auckland Youth Choir, and the New Zealand Youth Choir.
A former New Zealand Opera Studio Artist, Samuel performed with New Zealand Opera between 2018 and 2021, including touring nationally as Dr Malatesta in Donizetti’s Don Pasquale. He later completed a Master’s degree and Professional Studies Certificate at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music under César Ulloa, performing roles such as Candide, Gianni Schicchi, Pa in Proving Up, John Sorel in The Consul, and Le Podestat in Le Docteur Miracle. He has collaborated with conductors Edwin Outwater, Donato Cabrera, and Steven Osgood, and worked with directors including Freddie Wake‑Walker and Patricia Racette.
Recent engagements include the Barone in Verdi’s La Traviata with Wellington Opera, a recital at the Tosti International Singing Academy, and his United Kingdom debut in Handel’s Messiah. Supported by several New Zealand philanthropic organisations, Samuel continues to expand his lyric and spinto repertoire as he builds his career in Europe.