Good Songs For A Mezzo Soprano To Sing

Overview of Mezzo Soprano Voices

A mezzo soprano is a female voice type that falls between a soprano and an alto. The vocal range of a mezzo soprano typically spans from A3 to A5, although some exceptional singers can reach even higher notes. Mezzo sopranos possess a warm and rich tone, making them well-suited for a variety of musical genres. They have the ability to sing both high and low notes with ease, allowing them to showcase their versatility and vocal range.

Classical and Opera Selections

When it comes to classical and opera selections, there are several iconic pieces that perfectly suit the mezzo soprano voice. One such example is “Habanera” from the opera Carmen by Georges Bizet. This fiery and seductive aria showcases the mezzo soprano’s ability to convey passion and intensity.

Another popular choice for mezzo sopranos is “O mio babbino caro” from the opera Gianni Schicchi by Giacomo Puccini. This aria is a beautiful showcase of the mezzo soprano’s ability to express longing and vulnerability.

For a more challenging piece, “Parto, parto” from the opera La Clemenza di Tito by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a great choice. This aria requires excellent vocal control and agility, allowing the mezzo soprano to demonstrate their technical prowess.

Musical Theater Favorites

Mezzo sopranos are often cast in leading roles in musical theater due to their ability to portray complex characters and convey a wide range of emotions. One popular song for mezzo sopranos is “Defying Gravity” from the musical Wicked by Stephen Schwartz. This powerful anthem showcases the mezzo soprano’s ability to belt high notes and convey a sense of defiance.

“Don’t Rain on My Parade” from the musical Funny Girl by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill is another crowd-pleasing number for mezzo sopranos. This song allows the mezzo soprano to display their dynamic range and command of the stage.

“I Dreamed a Dream” from the musical Les Misérables by Claude-Michel Schönberg is a timeless classic that has been sung by many mezzo sopranos. This emotionally charged ballad allows the mezzo soprano to showcase their expressive abilities and tug at the heartstrings of the audience.

Contemporary and Pop Hits

Mezzo sopranos can also make a big impact in the world of contemporary and pop music. Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” is a great choice for a mezzo soprano looking to showcase their soulful and powerful vocals. This song allows the mezzo soprano to display their ability to sing with both strength and vulnerability.

Bruno Mars’ “All I Ask” is another popular choice for mezzo sopranos. This heartfelt ballad allows the mezzo soprano to demonstrate their ability to deliver emotional and heartfelt performances.

Adele’s “Someone Like You” is a beautiful and haunting ballad that perfectly suits the mezzo soprano voice. This song showcases the mezzo soprano’s ability to convey deep emotions and connect with the audience.

Folk and Jazz Classics

Mezzo sopranos can also explore the world of folk and jazz music, which offers a unique opportunity to showcase their versatility. George Gershwin’s “Summertime” from the opera Porgy and Bess is a timeless classic that allows the mezzo soprano to showcase their ability to deliver a soulful and bluesy performance.

Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good” is a jazz standard that can be a powerful showcase for a mezzo soprano’s ability to deliver a sultry and captivating performance. This song allows the mezzo soprano to demonstrate their ability to interpret lyrics and tell a story through their voice.

Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is a beautiful and haunting song that has been covered by many artists. The mezzo soprano’s rich and expressive voice can bring a unique interpretation to this beloved classic.

Tips for Choosing Songs

When choosing songs for a mezzo soprano, it’s important to consider their vocal range and tessitura, which is the range where their voice feels most comfortable and sounds best. Mezzo sopranos typically excel in the mid-range, so it’s important to choose songs that highlight this part of their voice.

Exploring different genres is also key to finding the right songs for a mezzo soprano. By trying out different styles, they can discover the ones that best showcase their unique abilities and allow them to shine.

Finally, it’s important for a mezzo soprano to choose songs that they have an emotional connection to and can tell a story through. This will help them deliver a more authentic and compelling performance that resonates with the audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mezzo sopranos have a wide range of songs to choose from that allow them to showcase their unique vocal abilities. Whether it’s classical and opera selections, musical theater favorites, contemporary and pop hits, or folk and jazz classics, there is a song out there for every mezzo soprano to shine. By considering their vocal range, exploring different genres, and emphasizing emotional connection and storytelling, mezzo sopranos can unlock their vocal potential and deliver breathtaking performances that leave a lasting impact on the audience.

FAQs

1. Can a mezzo soprano sing soprano songs?
   Yes, a mezzo soprano can sing soprano songs, although they may need to make adjustments to accommodate their vocal range. It’s important for a mezzo soprano to find the right key and make any necessary modifications to suit their voice.
2. What are some other opera selections for mezzo sopranos?
   Some other opera selections for mezzo sopranos include “Voi che sapete” from The Marriage of Figaro by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and “Mon coeur s’ouvre à ta voix” from Samson and Delilah by Camille Saint-Saëns.
3. Are there any contemporary pop songs that are particularly challenging for mezzo sopranos?
   While some contemporary pop songs may be challenging for mezzo sopranos due to their higher range, with practice and vocal training, they can often adapt these songs to suit their voice. Adele’s “Hello” and Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” are examples of challenging pop songs that mezzo sopranos can take on.
4. What are some tips for mezzo sopranos to improve their vocal range?
   To improve their vocal range, mezzo sopranos can work with a vocal coach to develop proper vocal technique and exercises that target their specific needs. Gradually expanding their range through consistent practice and warm-ups can also help in expanding their vocal capabilities.
5. Can a mezzo soprano transition to another voice type?
   While it is uncommon, some mezzo sopranos may transition to other voice types, such as soprano or contralto, as their voices develop and mature. This transition typically occurs gradually over time and with the guidance of a vocal coach or teacher.