Why Joan Sutherland's Artistry Endures: A Passionate Look at Her Singular Vocal Style and Acting

Joan Sutherland, one of the most influential opera singers of her time, has left a lasting impact on the world of opera. Despite criticisms that she can't act and that she performs every role the same, Sutherland's evolution throughout her career, particularly in terms of her vocal techniques and acting abilities, showcases her unique talent and dedication to the craft.

Joan Sutherland's Vocal Evolution

Early in her career, Sutherland focused on dramatic soprano roles, primarily in the works of composers such as Verdi and Wagner. Her voice was characterized by its flexibility and power, which allowed her to excel in a wide range of roles, from the powerful dramatic soprano to the demanding coloratura soprano.

Over time, Sutherland's voice underwent significant changes, particularly in terms of size and range. By her mid-50s, her voice had grown both in size and in power, becoming much larger and more impressive by the age of 60 than when she was 30. This remarkable development set Sutherland apart from other opera singers, as few were able to maintain such a high level of vocal prowess over such a prolonged period.

While some of her high notes, particularly Eb's, didn't reach the same level of spectacularness as in her earlier performances, she continued to have a top Eb that she could rely on until the end of her career. Meanwhile, her D#6 became even more impressive, with powerful and memorable high D's well into her 60s.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Sutherland's voice was her incredible flexibility, which remained intact throughout the years. Despite the significant increase in her voice's size, she never lost her ability to hit agile and precise notes, even on the upper register.

Acting and Characterization

Sutherland's performances were not just about voice but also about her acting skills. In her earlier years, her acting was often criticized for being unremarkable. However, by her mid-1970s performances, such as her role as Violetta in Tokyo in 1975 and Norma from Sydney, her acting became notable and refined.

It's important to note that Sutherland's characters often appeared as simple 'mooning ingénues' with an unchanging sound and demeanor. She seemed to approach each role primarily as a singing exercise rather than a performance art. Nevertheless, her technical skills and powerful voice were awe-inspiring.

Despite these criticisms, many fans were captivated by Sutherland's consistency and reliability. Her performances were remarkably stable, offering listeners the security of her powerful and reliable voice, which was often associated with lighter and less dependable voices in the past.

The combination of Sutherland's unparalleled vocal techniques and the complex and impressive roles she took on, often with the help of renowned accompanists and conductors like Richard Bonynge, pavarotti, and more, formed the basis of her enduring legacy. Her ability to perform forgotten operas, which offered new and challenging stages for her unique vocal style, further solidified her place in the pantheon of great opera singers.

For those who admired Sutherland, her performances offered a glimpse into the 'lost glories' of opera, such as the techniques and styles of past greats like Giuditta Pasta, Jenny Lind, and Adelina Patti. This legacy ensures that future generations continue to appreciate Sutherland's contributions to opera and her enduring influence on the art form.

Joan Sutherland's artistry continues to inspire and captivate audiences, and her career serves as a testament to the enduring power of vocal technique, artistry, and commitment to the craft of opera.