The Belle Époque Today: The Art of Alex Duliba

Alexander Duliba

We'll gather lilacs in the spring again 
And walk together down an English lane 
Until our hearts have learned to sing again 
When you come home once more

                                   --Ivor Novello

Every so often, and, I admit it’s quite rare, I find myself impressed with the talents of an actual, living person. And, so, since I take these things quite seriously, I share the achievements of these individuals with all of you. With the exception of the occasional puppeteer or Punch Professor, usually—in fact, exclusively—these individuals have been visual artists. But, today, I’m going to introduce you to Alex Duliba, a singer.

Mr. Duliba, a baritone from Essex, England, has developed his exceptional skill and impressive range over the course of his lifetime. Encouraged as a child to pursue his dream of singing, Alex studied with Miss Joyce Ellis, and, later Mr. Robert Alderson, both of whom quickly found that young Duliba had a natural knack for line, as well as grasping the importance of text and style. Alex thrived in his studies of the classics.

Ivor Novello

Alderson suggested that the songs of the great Ivor Novello would certainly suit Duliba’s style, and, Alex quickly realized a passion for Novello’s work as well as a deep appreciation for the ballads of the 1920s through 1950s. Alex Duliba noted to me that he felt quite fortunate to have been able to share this love of those enchanting ballads with his late, beloved grandmother who had a special fondness for them as well.

Without a doubt, I’m impressed to see a person in my own (relatively) age group, devoting his life to a revival of such works. So, three cheers for Mr. Duliba. His immense talent speaks—or sings—for itself. Enjoy this clip of young Alex singing Novello’s “We’ll Gather Lilacs,” and keep your eyes open as I have a feeling we’ll be seeing much more from this baritone. 

Here’s wishing Mr. Duliba much success.