Shengzhi Ren
Bio
From an early age, Shengzhi stood out with his captivating voice. In the following years, his talent for opera performance has taken him on a journey around the world, bringing him to the UK where he now resides. In 2020/2021, Shengzhi received the Scottish Opera Emerging Artist Award after successfully completing the Young Artist Programme at the National Opera Studio. From 2017 to 2019 he studied with the Royal Academy of Music, obtaining the Advanced Diploma in Opera with full scholarship. He previously trained at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music in Bel Canto where he graduated with honours in Bachelor and Master degrees.
My approach
I am captivated by the intricacies of suspense and the power of the human voice in opera storytelling. My approach to creating a compelling performance is rooted in my passion for delivering intensely emotive and thought-provoking experiences that have a lasting impact on the audience.
Education
Shengzhi’s journey across continents to study opera in some of the greatest Chinese and UK music institutions has given him a unique understanding of classical performance across cultures.
Scottish Opera 2020-2021 Emerging Artist Program |
National Opera Studio 2019-2020 Young Artist Program |
Royal Academy of Music 2017-2019 Advanced Diploma in Opera. Porter Fund Award. |
Shanghai Conservatory of Music 2013-2016 Vocal Performance MA Hons 2003-2008 Vocal Performance BA Hons |
Solo Performances
Shengzhi Ren
2023
Xinghai Hall - Das Rheingold
In the role of ‘Frog’, Shengzhi enthralled the audience alongside the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra in Wagner’s musical drama.
2023
Theatre Royal - Daphne
Keith Bruce, writing for The Guardian said, “Chinese tenor Shengzhi Ren, was a revelation as Leukippos, the young man in love with Daphne. This was a heroic performance, in his portrayal of the character and his precise vocal assurance.” Photo by Sally Jubb Photography
2022
Theatre Royal - Don Giovanni
Shengzhi delivered a compelling performance as Don Ottavio to an enraptured audience in this fully staged rendition of Mozart’s Don Giovanni, under the direction of Sir Thomas Allen.
2022
Hong Kong - Carmina Burana
Tenor soloist - Once I Swam in Lakes. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the UK and China. Performing alongside the The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra and Hong Kong Ballet
2022
Lammermuir - Therese
Singing the part of Armand de Clerval in Massenet’s Therese at the Lammermuir Festival. “Shengzhi Ren having a welcome opportunity to show off his powerful but relaxed tenor voice.” Vox Carnyx. Photo by Sally Jubb Photography
2022
BBC Proms - Il Tabarro
Shengzhi wowed the Royal Albert Hall audience in this BBC televised performance playing the soloist role of the Ballad-Seller in Puccini’s classic.
Accolades
SCottish Opera emerging artist
2020/2021 (Scotland)
Neapolitan Masters competition
3rd Prize (2019 - Italy)
golden bell awards
First Prize (2009 - China)
golden bell awards
First Prize
(2015 - China)
international contest for young singers
First Prize (2006 - Macao)
International opera competition
First Prize (2010 - Hong Kong)