Biography
“A mezzo-soprano with a dramatic timbre and Zwischenfach versatility. Her impressive three-octave range combines a rich, warm lower register with a brilliant upper register distinguished by its metallic edge.”
Gayaneh Mahdessian is a Belgian-Armenian high mezzo-soprano with a developing dramatic voice and an impressive three-octave range. Her sound combines a strong chest register and rich, warm low notes with a brilliant upper register characterised by a distinctive metallic ring. She is currently deepening her exploration of Zwischenfach repertoire, drawing on both the depth and height of her voice while allowing its dramatic character to develop naturally.
She studied classical singing at the Royal Conservatoire Antwerp and pursued private studies with internationally renowned opera singers Eva-Maria Westbroek and Frank van Aken. She currently works with Nina Cossetto, Head of Répétiteurs at the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb.
Her operatic experience includes role debuts as Cherubino in Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro, directed by Guy Joosten; the Witch in Humperdinck’s Hänsel und Gretel, directed by Benoît De Leersnyder; and Larina in Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin, directed by Natalya Belokonskaya. She has also performed scenes as the title character in Bizet’s Carmen and in Puccini’s Suor Angelica. Alongside her operatic work, she has appeared as an actress in several short films, bringing her interest in character and storytelling to the screen.
Gayaneh was twice shortlisted as a finalist for Dolora Zajick’s Institute for Young Dramatic Voices. She was a finalist at the international opera singing competition in memory of Maria Callas in Brescia, a semifinalist at the Bologna International Vocal Competition and a quarterfinalist at both the Portofino International Opera Competition and the Galina Vishnevskaya International Opera Singers Competition.
Her recent performances include solo recitals and concerts, an appearance at the Ghent Festival and Steve Reich’s Music for 18 Musicians. Her work also extends to classical crossover, including performances in World Hits with The Universe Orchestra, where popular repertoire meets the sound of a live symphonic orchestra.
Alongside her stage and concert work, Gayaneh performs at private celebrations, corporate events and gala evenings, offering repertoire ranging from opera and classical favourites to film music, musical theatre and crossover songs.