Coloratura contralto is a unique calling when it comes to voice types, and those who can master it are able to open up new worlds of colour. Canadian vocalist Marie-Nicole Lemieux is such a singer, her incredible dexterity taking her to all corners of sound in her performances. She dances beautifully among clarinets and oboes in her “Voi, che sapete”, recorded in 2012, which is sympathetic and vibrant. Her voice rising and descending like a feather blowing in the wind, she masters Bizet's most challenging, chromatic passages from Carmen with the utmost integrity, making its long melodies and sharp turns seem easy.