Mezzosopraner

Mezzosopraner refers to a type of singing voice that falls between the contralto and the soprano registers. It is the most common female voice type in opera. Mezzosopranos typically have a vocal range from roughly A3 to F6, though this can vary. Their vocal timbre is often described as richer and darker than a soprano's, but lighter and more agile than a contralto's.

In operatic repertoire, mezzosoprano roles can be diverse, often encompassing characters who are mature, seductive, or possess a complex emotional depth. These roles can range from heroic figures to villains, and from mothers to young boys. Historically, the mezzosoprano voice has been central to many operatic compositions, providing a crucial vocal color and dramatic weight.

There are subcategories within the mezzosoprano classification, often reflecting vocal weight and agility. These include the coloratura mezzo-soprano, who possesses a light, agile voice capable of rapid runs and ornamentation, and the dramatic mezzosoprano, who has a powerful, full voice suitable for more intense roles. The lyric mezzosoprano falls between these two, characterized by a smooth, flowing vocal line. The development and recognition of the mezzosoprano voice as a distinct category have evolved over centuries of operatic tradition.