Jules Bastin; Leading European Opera Singer

Jules Bastin, 64, one of Europe’s greatest opera singers. Bastin sang the starring bass roles in Verdi’s “Don Carlo” and operas by composers ranging from Mozart to Wagner. A Belgian, he was best known for his sensitive interpretation of works in French and Italian. But his own favorite was Richard Strauss’ comic German opera, “Der Rosenkavalier.” The singer was appreciated for his acting talent as well as his voice. Bastin began his career as a teacher of German, French and history before he became a professional singer. He later taught music at the Royal Music Conservatory in Brussels. On Tuesday in Brussels of heart failure.