Hear the electrifying voice of one of Australia’s most exciting vocal exports. Virtuosic mezzo-soprano Lotte Betts-Dean traces the resonance of vocal composition, through centuries of art song, folk arrangements and opera to contemporary works, electronics and pop. 

 

With her laptop, transducer speakers and firebrand young Sydney-based pianist Ronan Apcar at her side, Betts-Dean weaves a time-travelling tapestry, showcasing the trademark versatility that has seen her traverse recital halls, recording studios and opera houses worldwide. From Barbara Strozzi to Sinéad O’Connor, Lili Boulanger to Charli XCX, Betts-Dean’s genuinely eclectic curation brings women’s voices to the fore in a highly charged programme that also features modern masterworks by Ligeti, Adams and Messiaen. 

Words and wordlessness, singing and sound, electronic and acoustic, classical and pop, the very new and the very old, the celebrated and the unsung — a world of musical dualities expressed through a singular and extraordinary voice: Lotte Betts-Dean. 

We asked four of Australia’s most celebrated classical ensembles and artists to respond to the theme “birth, destiny and what we leave behind” – inspired by Visual Artist in Residence Telly Tuita and his Tongan heritage. Explore the Resonance program here.

"Impressive control, an irrepressible sense of drama and extraordinary self-assurance"

– The Guardian

"Captivated by the unique, surreal quality of Lotte Betts-Dean’s voice – a folk-like purity embellished with beguiling ornamentation."

– The Scotsman