Nessun Dorma’s Climax: B4 or C5 - The Ultimate Analysis

The opera Nessun Dorma by Giacomo Puccini reaches its crescendo with a controversial climax. Is the high note B4 or C5? This article delves deep into the nuances of this iconic aria, providing insights backed by vocal techniques, opera history, and performance styles.

Understanding the High Note in 'Nessun Dorma'

The high note in 'Nessun Dorma' is a crucial element of the aria's emotional impact. In the tenor vocal range, the note is typically written as B5, a full octave above its actual sound, which results in the notation B5. However, this can vary depending on the performer's technique and the specific vocal range they need to reach. Soprano singers, for instance, typically sing this note an octave higher, making it B5 or C6.

While the note is B5, it jumps from a D, practically an octave lower, making it a significant vocal challenge. The intensity of the performance, combined with the growing emotion throughout the aria, adds to the impact of the high note. The phrase 'Vincero' means 'I SHALL WIN,' and the performance's extraordinariness lies in the tenor's ability to hit and sustain the high B, which can strain under different circumstances.

The Historical Context

Upon analyzing the score, it's evident that Puccini intended the high note as a 16th note that transitions into the aria's final whole note A. This technical aspect suggests that the emphasis should be placed on the last syllable of 'Vincero.' Tenors, however, often extend the middle syllable of the word, creating a more dramatic effect. This deviation from the original score is not incorrect, but it does highlight the subjective nature of vocal interpretation in opera.

It's essential to note that Antonio Cortis, a renowned tenor who debuted the role of Turandot, performed 'Nessun Dorma' in 1929 with the high note as B4, or a semitone short of C5. This recording, made just three years after the opera's premiere, serves as a testament to Puccini's original intention. Similarly, Francesco Merli, in the first complete recording of the opera in 1938, also performed the aria with the high note as B4.

Experts in the Field

For a "correct" interpretation of the high note in 'Nessun Dorma,' it is recommended to listen to the 1929 recording by Antonio Cortis. This recording, made during the early years of the role's debut, provides insights into Puccini's original vision. Toscanini conducted the aria at its first performance at La Scala in a manner consistent with Cortis's performance.

Merli's 1938 recording also aligns with Cortis's interpretation, further validating the presence of the high B or B4. These recordings demonstrate that the high note is not a make-or-break moment but rather a performance choice influenced by the tenor's technique and the emotional journey of the character.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the high note is commonly referred to as B5, it is more accurately B4, or a semitone short of C5. This nuanced understanding of the note's true pitch is crucial for performers and enthusiasts of opera. The high note in 'Nessun Dorma' remains a pivotal moment in vocal performance, highlighting the blend of technique and emotional expression that defines Puccini's masterpiece.

Additional Resources

Antonio Cortis's 1929 recording Francesco Merli's 1938 recording Puccini's score for 'Nessun Dorma'

Explore these recordings and the score of 'Nessun Dorma' to gain a deeper appreciation of the opera's rich history and enduring legacy.