I retract...

I attended a GREAT masterclass today at Boston College, given by Sondra Kelly. A young dramatic mezzo sang the Lullaby, and despite her solid technique,trorough understanding of the character/opera and great potential, it was discussed that this role wasn't appropriate for a mezzo under the age of 40. As one could derive from the previous poster's repsonse, this IS a contralto's aria. Special considerations should be made, with these key issues in mind. MORAL: it is hard for the young dramatic voices to choose appropriate rep. since there's is a fach that is cast with more mature singers in mind.