This event marks the Australian debut of the fabulous American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, one of the world’s most distinguished current opera stars.

Early in her career DiDonato specialised in Baroque and Classical vocal repertoire but she has recently expanded into a wider range of music genres. She possesses a powerful but pure-toned and flexible voice that exudes a warmth and charisma that entrance the listener.

Joyce DiDonato and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Photo © Caleb Miller

Berlioz’s Les nuit d’eté, Op. 7 (Summer Nights), six songs that reflect a great variety of mood in the many facets of love, is an ideal vehicle to demonstrate the singer’s vocal range and colour. Her performance is a triumph in its control, expressiveness and the ability to identify with the emotional content.

Le spectre de la rose has a dreamlike character that is mesmerising. Following a well-deserved audience ovation, the encores, if anything, are even more affecting – a wonderfully sensual Habanera from Bizet’s Carmen and a beautiful rendition of the Arlen/Harburg standard Over the Rainbow.