Joyce DiDonato Dazzles in Berlioz and Carmen at NZSO Concert

The New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) presented a captivating summer concert featuring the acclaimed mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato on March 15, 2024. Titled Summer Nights, the concert showcased DiDonato’s extraordinary talent with a performance of Berlioz’s Les Nuits d’Été, marking a highlight in the New Zealand cultural calendar.

Dressed in a stunning gown adorned with diamante and feathers, DiDonato illuminated the stage, embodying the essence of the songs she performed. The synergy between the singer and conductor Gemma New was palpable, as they navigated through the delicate textures of Berlioz’s music, bringing to life the poetry of Theophile Gautier.

The concert opened with a vivid portrayal of Spring, where DiDonato’s voice threaded through the delicately scored arrangement. Her vocal line, exquisitely modulated, captivated the audience from the outset. DiDonato’s expressive gestures, including a radiant smile and a knowing glance towards the cellists and bassists, added depth to her performance, particularly during her final verse.

As the concert progressed, DiDonato showcased her vocal prowess, particularly her rich lower register. In the third song, she delivered a powerful A flat, evoking a haunting atmosphere as she referenced a shroud. This moment highlighted her ability to convey emotion through music, resonating deeply with the audience.

Throughout the performance, the harmony between DiDonato, New, and the orchestra created a unified experience. The musicians demonstrated a remarkable cohesiveness, allowing the fragmented themes of absence in Berlioz’s work to coalesce beautifully. The concert culminated in a romantic image of searching for a timeless love, a fitting conclusion to a night of extraordinary artistry.

DiDonato’s performance not only reaffirmed her status as a leading figure in classical music but also left attendees with lasting memories of a summer evening enriched by the beauty of Berlioz and the allure of Carmen. The NZSO’s Summer Nights concert will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the artistic season in New Zealand.