Period

:

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Opera

 

 

Symphony

 

 

Vocal

 

Brigitte Balleys is a renowned Swiss mezzo-soprano who has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Born on 22nd May 1954 in Lausanne, Switzerland, Balleys grew up in a family of musicians. Her father was a conductor, and her mother was a pianist. From a young age, Balleys showed a keen interest in music and began taking piano lessons at the age of six. Balleys' musical journey began when she joined the Lausanne Conservatory, where she studied piano, singing, and music theory. She later went on to study at the Geneva Conservatory, where she received her diploma in singing. Balleys then continued her studies at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater in Munich, Germany, where she studied under the tutelage of renowned mezzo-soprano Brigitte Fassbaender. Balleys' career as a professional singer began in 1979 when she made her debut at the Geneva Opera as Cherubino in Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro." Her performance was well-received, and she quickly gained recognition as a talented mezzo-soprano. Balleys went on to perform in various operas and concerts across Europe, including at the Paris Opera, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Salzburg Festival. One of Balleys' most notable performances was in the role of Carmen in Bizet's "Carmen" at the Zurich Opera in 1986. Her performance was highly acclaimed, and she received widespread recognition for her portrayal of the character. Balleys' performance in "Carmen" was a turning point in her career, and she went on to perform the role in various productions across Europe. Balleys has also performed in various other operas, including "The Magic Flute," "Don Giovanni," and "The Barber of Seville." She has worked with renowned conductors such as Claudio Abbado, Daniel Barenboim, and Riccardo Muti. Balleys has also collaborated with various orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Vienna Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra. In addition to her work in opera, Balleys has also performed in concerts and recitals. She has performed in various venues across Europe, including the Wigmore Hall in London and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. Balleys has also recorded several albums, including "Songs of Debussy," "Songs of Ravel," and "Songs of Schumann." Balleys' talent and dedication to her craft have earned her numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. In 1987, she was awarded the Swiss Music Prize, and in 1991, she was awarded the Prix de la Fondation Vaudoise pour la Culture. Balleys was also awarded the title of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 1993. Balleys' contribution to the world of classical music has been significant, and she has inspired many young musicians to pursue a career in music. Her dedication to her craft and her passion for music have made her one of the most respected and admired mezzo-sopranos of her generation.

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