Frazan Adil Kotwal, a Mumbai-born opera singer, embarked on a remarkable journey that seamlessly blends music, social service, and profound artistry. Graduating from Jaihind College in Mumbai with a degree in mass media and journalism in 2015, Frazan’s passion for classical music led him to not only embrace the role of a dynamic baritone but also to inspire change through his musical endeavours.
During his college years, Frazan’s stage extended beyond the classroom as he became an active participant in theatre productions across India. Simultaneously, he ventured into the world of journalism as a freelance writer. Yet, his commitment went beyond his personal growth; since 2011, Frazan initiated transformative classical music projects for underprivileged children in Mumbai’s slums, fostering an appreciation for music and creating youth music groups for the study of classical art.
Frazan Adil Kotwal’s dynamic baritone blends power and nuance, delivering deeply expressive performances that leave a lasting impression
Starting with a self-driven approach to vocal training, Frazan emerged as a versatile baritone, gracing private concerts in global cities including Mumbai, New York, London, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore. His exceptional talents earned him scholarships to prestigious international music festivals, such as Austria’s Alpenkammermusikfestival in 2015 and New York’s Art Song Preservation Society in 2017.
Initially guided by renowned mentors like Randall Scarlatta, Frazan’s journey led him to study Bachelor Voice at the Staatliche Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Stuttgart, honing his craft under the tutelage of world-acclaimed soprano Prof. Ulrike Sonntag. His artistic prowess gained recognition through recital concerts, solo performances, and accolades like the Fritz-Wunderlich-Society prize, the Yehudi Menuhin Live Music Now Scholarship, and the Christel-Guthörle Scholarship.
Beyond his musical feats, Frazan’s compassion shone during the pandemic, as he and his collaborator, Yu Tashiro, embarked on a mission to bring solace to institutions like hospitals and homeless shelters through their performances, uplifting those in need. Notably, Frazan’s artistry transcends traditional stages, touching hearts in venues like the Fruchtkasten and New Palace in Stuttgart, as well as socially impactful institutions including Stammheim prison. For this they were specially thanked by the city of Stuttgart. His social work did not just stop there, as he continues to give concerts for different audiences in all kinds of institutions.
In a defining moment, Frazan’s talents shone as he debuted as The Landlord in Nicholas Kok’s “The Waste (no Land),” a role custom-composed for his distinctive voice. Having completed his Masters in Opera at the esteemed Opera School in Stuttgart, Frazan continued to take on diverse roles, debuting to acclaim as the Count in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro” in Heilbronn and the role of Dr. Falke in Strauß’ “Die Fledermaus” amongst others. His resonant baritone brought to life roles such as Bottom in Britten’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Uberto in Pergolesi’s “La Serva Padrona,” Jupiter in Offenbach’s “Orpheus in the Underworld” Le Marquis de la Force & le Geôlier in Poulenc’s “Les Dialogues des Carmélites”.
Frazan’s future promises enchanting performances and evocative experiences and captivating concerts throughout Europe and the UK. Adding to his impressive repertoire, Frazan will soon debut as Don Giovanni, a role eagerly anticipated by audiences and guided by some of the current top opera singers. Frazan Adil Kotwal stands as an embodiment of artistic brilliance, social responsibility, and unwavering dedication to the transformative power of music.
