Helen Watts

Helen Watts was a beloved British contralto whose rich, velvety voice made her a standout in classical and operatic circles during the mid-20th century. Known for her expressive interpretations of lieder, oratorios, and symphonic works, she became a favorite collaborator with icons like Benjamin Britten and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Her recordings spanned everything from Handel’s dramatic oratorios (*Judas Maccabeus*, *Zadok the Priest*) to Mahler’s soul-stirring symphonies, showcasing her versatility across Baroque, Romantic, and modern repertoires.

A champion of both intimate art songs and grand choral pieces, Watts brought warmth and depth to everything she performed—whether delivering the hushed drama of a German lied or the fiery grandeur of a Handel aria. Though she passed away in 2009, her legacy lives on through timeless recordings that still captivate classical music lovers today. Fun fact: Her knack for blending power with subtlety made her a go-to soloist for composers who demanded emotional precision (looking at you, Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony).

Genres

Opera

Classical

Choral

Latest Release

Benjamin Britten: Song Cycles

Benjamin Britten•

Sir Peter Pears•

Helen Watts

Album - 23 Tracks - Released August 7, 2021