Mezzo Sopranos – Your Guide to the Best Opera Arias

Mezzo Sopranos – Your Guide to the Best Opera Arias provides an in-depth look at the best arias for mezzo sopranos, including history, analysis, and tips for performers.

What is a mezzo soprano?

In opera, a mezzo-soprano is a woman who sings in the lower register, usually playing supporting roles. Mezzo-sopranos have a vocal range that extends from the A below middle C to the A two octaves above (i.e. A3–A5 in scientific pitch notation). In the lower and upper extremes, some mezzo-sopranos may extend down to the F below middle C (F3) and as high as high C (C6).

The term mezzo-soprano was developed in relation to classical and operatic voices, where it refers to the voice between soprano and contralto. These terms are also applied to other musical genres such as jazz, folk music, rock music, etc. where they designate similar ranges of female vocalists.

The word mezzo comes from the Italian language word for “half”, indicating that mezzo-sopranos generally have a lower range than sopranos.

The best mezzo soprano arias

The best mezzo soprano arias are those that show off the singer’s vocal range, power, and emotion. They are the ones that make you want to stand up and cheer. Here is a list of the best mezzo soprano arias, in no particular order.

“L’amour est un oiseau rebelle” from Carmen

One of the most popular mezzo soprano arias of all time, “L’amour est un oiseau rebelle” comes from the opera Carmen. In the aria, Carmen sings of love being a free and rebellious bird that cannot be contained. It is a popular choice for mezzo sopranos to show off their vocal range and power.

“Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix” from Samson et Dalila

One of the most popular mezzo soprano arias of all time, “Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix” comes from the opera Samson et Dalila by Camille Saint-Saëns. The aria is sung by the character Dalila, a temptress who uses her feminine wiles to try and seduce the Israelite judge and leader Samson.

Despite its popularity, “Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix” is actually one of the more challenging arias for singers. It requires both power and agility, as well as a fair bit of acting ability to convincingly convey Dalila’s emotions.

“O mio babbino caro” from Gianni Schicchi

“O mio babbino caro” is one of the most beloved arias in all of opera. It was composed by Giacomo Puccini for his one-act opera Gianni Schicchi, and it has been sung by many of the world’s greatest mezzo sopranos.

The aria is a beautifully heartfelt plea from a young woman, Lauretta, to her father, Gianni Schicchi. She is begging him to help her win the heart of the man she loves. The music is incredibly moving, and the lyrics are some of the most beautiful in all of opera.

If you are new to opera, or if you are just looking for some great mezzo soprano arias to add to your collection, “O mio babbino caro” is an excellent choice. It is sure to please any opera lover, and it will undoubtedly become one of your favorite arias.

“Habanera” from Carmen

The “Habanera” from Carmen is one of the most famous mezzo soprano arias of all time. The aria is sung by the title character, Carmen, as she taunts her former lover, Don Jose. The aria is known for its catchy rhythm and for its use of the Spanish guitar.

“In trutina” from Carmina Burana

Of all the mezzo soprano arias out there, this one from Carmina Burana is definitely one of the most popular. It’s a great example of a mezzo soprano showpiece, with plenty of high notes and virtuosic vocalism. “In trutina” is also a perfect example of an aria that can be performed either as a standalone piece or as part of a larger work.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading our guide to the best opera arias for mezzo sopranos. We hope you have found it helpful and informative. As always, we welcome your feedback and comments.