The Bayreuth Festival mourns the passing of bass-baritone Siegmund Nimsgern, who died on 14 September 2025 at the age of 85.
Born in the Saarland, Nimsgern began his career at the Saarländisches Staatstheater and soon appeared at the great opera houses of the world – including the Vienna State Opera, La Scala in Milan, the Paris Opera, Covent Garden in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. His wide-ranging repertoire extended from Baroque to contemporary works, from oratorio to opera, with a special distinction as an interpreter of Wagner.
At Bayreuth, Siegmund Nimsgern performed from 1983 to 1986, taking on the role of Wotan in the Ring des Nibelungen. With his vocal authority, powerful stage presence and profound understanding of Wagner’s music, he left a lasting mark on the Festival of those years.
Beyond Bayreuth, he embodied many Wagnerian characters – including Telramund (Lohengrin), Klingsor (Parsifal) and Alberich (Ring des Nibelungen) – while also demonstrating exceptional versatility in a wide range of other repertoire.
The Bayreuth Festival bows in gratitude to a great singer and an impressive stage artist. Our deepest sympathy goes to his family and loved ones.