Aksel Schiøtz (1906-1975) is probably not as wellknown as many other famous post World War II tenors - but he would deserve to be. Particularly Schiøtz is remembered as a great lieder singer. His recordings of Schubert´s and Schumann´s lieder are real treasures. However, when the Nazis invaded Denmark he refused requests to sing German lieder realising that his performances would be used as propaganda. Instead he began performing and recording Danish songs - both folk and art songs. These recordings soon became very popular in Denmark and are still loved by friends of Danish music.
Schiøtz´s career as singer had several tragic moments. In 1946 he had an operation of the acoustic nerve, which left one side of his face partly paralysed. In most cases this would have ended a singer´s career, but through a strong will-power Schiøtz was able to make a comeback in 1948. Only two years later he was again operated, this time for a brain tumour. The operation was succesful, and the singer could return to singing - now as a baritone - but he soon found out that his voice had suffered. Later Schiøtz established himself as a highly regarded teacher of singing in he US, Canada and Denmark.
Here you can listen to Schiøtz sing three songs from Schumann´s Dichterliebe.
Schiøtz´s version of Carl Nielsen´s song "Den milde dag" (The gentle day) is a wonderful example of his recordings of Danish songs.
Fortunately, many of Aksel Schiøtz´s recordings are still available.
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