Melbourne review wrap: Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Ryman Healthcare Spring Gala; Pixies at Festival Hall; Joyce DiDonato at Hamer Hall; Brigid at Dancehouse

MUSIC

Ryman Healthcare Spring Gala: Joyce DiDonato ★★★★★

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Hamer Hall, November 21

Making her first major Australasian tour, American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato confirmed her reputation as one of this generation’s most compelling classical singers in a memorably sophisticated account of Berlioz’ song cycle Nuits d’été (Summer Nights) with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra under chief conductor Jaime Martín .

American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato performs with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Credit: Laura Manariti

DiDonato took evident delight in revealing the elegant sensuality and profound emotion flowing from this supreme expression of French romanticism. Charting a journey from innocence through loss to new life, the six songs were a perfect