The Merola Grand Finale: August 20, 2011

On the War Memorial Opera House Stage with the San Francisco Opera Orchestra

San Francisco Examiner : August 21, 2011 - Stephen Smoliar 

"On the more serious side Marina Boudart Harris and John Maynard came together with almost magical effect for the duet between Arabella and Mandryka that concludes Richard Strauss’ Arabella… The confident execution by both Harris and Maynard left one with the confident feeling that, at least in this particular opera, all will be well when the curtain falls."

San Francisco Classical Voice : August 20, 2011 - Jason Victor Serinus 

"The Mandryka of baritone John Maynard, 32, showed great promise."

The Opera Tattler : August 21, 2011 

"Another highlight of the evening was "Das war sehr gut Mandryka" from Arabella, with Marina Boudart Harris (Arabella) and John Maynard (Mandryka). Boudart Harris sang imposingly, and without strain. Maynard gamely supported her with his pleasant sound."

The Mainstage Production of Il Barbiere di Siviglia 

Singing the role of Bartolo on the stage of the Herbst Theater

San Francisco Examiner : August 6, 2011 - Stephen Smoliar 

"The most striking change, however, may have been John Maynard’s approach to Bartolo... Maynard went for a more realistically human Bartolo, very much a misanthrope in his old age, whose feelings for Rosina actually suggest the baser forms of lust from a man incapable of love.  This escalated the production above the plane of situation comedy to a narrative in which motives required greater scrutiny from the audience."

San Francisco Classical Voice : August 6, 2011 - Jason Victor Serinus 

"Maynard excelled with big warm voices, fine legato, and great diction."

Not for Fun Only : August 6, 2011 - Axel Feldheim 

"Baritone John Maynard is a physically impressive Bartolo & a formidable obstacle for the lovers. His voice is powerful and mature sounding."

Opera Tattler : August 6, 2011

"John Maynard's Dr. Bartolo was amusingly imprudent and conniving. Maynard sang smoothly and with ease."

Sfist.com : August 6, 2011 

"We liked John Maynard's Dr Bartolo, maybe because he brought more gravitas to the role... adding a touching depth beyond the buffoonery."