Mezzo-soprano Elizabeth DeShong has developed a reputation as “one of the most intelligent stage performers of her generation” (Opera News). Lauded equally for her musicianship and commanding stage presence, she has established herself as a regular on concert and operatic stages worldwide. An alumna of the Ryan Opera Center, Chicago audiences have witnessed her astonishing technical and artistic growth. She joins WFMT to share her approach to the virtuosic music of Handel and two bel canto composers, Saverio Mercadante and Giacomo Meyerbeer, in advance of her return to Chicago in Haymarket Opera’s upcoming presentation of Alcina at Ravinia Festival. Learn more HERE.
Elizabeth DeShong on Handel and Bel Canto
Elizabeth DeShong (Photo: Kristin Hoebermann)
Playlist
All selections feature mezzo-soprano Elizabeth DeShong.
George Frideric Handel: Alcina, HWV 34
Act I, aria “È gelosia”
Act I, aria “Vorrei vendicarmi”
Act III, trio “Non è amor”
Magdalena Kožená, mezzo-soprano
Anna Bonitatibus, mezzo-soprano
Les Musiciens du Louvre/Marc Minkowski
Giacomo Meyerbeer: Le Prophète
Act II, arioso “Ah! mon fils”
Act III, scène, cavatine, and air “Ô prêtres de Baal…Ô toi qui n’abandonnes”
London Symphony Orchestra/Sir Mark Elder
Saverio Mercadante: “Ahi! Del giorno sanguinoso…Colui che m’ha quest’anima” from Il proscritto
Opera Rara Chorus
Britten Sinfonia/Carlo Rizzi
Handel (orch. Andrew Davis): “But who may abide” from Messiah, HWV 56
Toronto Symphony Orchestra/Sir Andrew Davis
