Jean Elleviou

Who was Jean Elleviou?

Jean Elleviou was a French operatic tenor, one of the most celebrated French singers of his time.

Born Pierre-Jean-Baptiste-François Elleviou, he made his debut at the Comédie-Italienne in Paris in 1790, as a baritone in the role of Alexis in Monsigny's Le déserteur, and the following year as a tenor in Dalayrac's Philippe et Georgette.

He went on creating some 40 roles during the next 20 years, in operas by Grétry, Dalayrac, Monsigny, Boieldieu, Méhul, Isouard, etc. His repertory also included Azor in Zémire et Azor, Blondel in Richard Coeur-de-lion, Almaviva in Paisiello's Il barbiere di Siviglia.

He sang extensively in Italy in 1795, and across France in 1795 to 1797, then returned to Paris, appearing at the newly renamed Opéra-Comique. He retired in 1813, after Napoléon I refused to increase his already huge salary.

According to contemporaries, his voice was very sweet and flexible, he was noted for his eloquent diction, and had a handsome and charming stage presence which made him a great favorite by Paris audience.