A singer who has captured the hearts of a huge audience, DiDonato’s repertoire ranges from the Baroque (Handel is central to her repertoire) to music written especially for her. A regular at the Met, as well as the world’s major houses, DiDonato moves effortlessly between the Italian repertoire (Rossini uppermost) and the German (she’s a wonderful Octavian in Der Rosenkavalier).

DiDonato: a tribute by Jake Heggie

'The staggering, joyful artistry of Joyce DiDonato reminds us that in any generation there are few giants. Joyce is not only a great, brave and inspiring artist – one of the finest singers of our time – but she is also a transformative presence in the arts. Those who know her repertoire are in awe of her gifts, and those who know nothing of it are instantly dazzled and engaged. Joyce sings and the world is suddenly brighter. She compels us to listen actively, to hear things anew. Every gleaming note and phrase is infused with connection, meaning and an almost unnerving empathy. Joyce delights in possibility and has no wish to play it safe. When I write a song or a role for her, I know she will explore every nuance until it leaps off the page as though it had always existed. It is a sense of wonder she brings to every performance, and to every person lucky enough to call her a friend.'

Recommended recording