Daniela Dessi

Daniela Dessì was a powerhouse Italian soprano whose rich, emotive voice lit up opera stages from the 1980s until her untimely passing in 2016. Born in Sardinia, she became a celebrated interpreter of Verdi and Puccini heroines, pouring fiery intensity into roles like Tosca, Aida, and Violetta in *La Traviata*. Her discography – including live performances like *Turandot* and *Ernani* – showcases her knack for balancing vocal grandeur with raw dramatic truth. Dessì thrived in partnership with her husband, conductor Francesco Zambello (note: correction needed – Dessì was actually married to conductor and pianist **Francesco Meli**; Zambello is a director), collaborating on standout recordings like *Fedora* and *I Medici*. Though she dazzled at major houses like La Scala and the Vienna State Opera, her recordings remain a testament to an artist who sang with both technical mastery and heart-on-sleeve passion.