Classical Countertenor

Classical countertenor refers to a music genre in which male singers, known as countertenors, use a vocal range that is typically associated with female mezzo-sopranos or altos. This is achieved by employing the falsetto register, or in some cases the natural head voice, to achieve a purity and lightness of tone that is well-suited to the performance of early music, such as Baroque arias and Renaissance madrigals. The genre has seen a resurgence in recent times, with countertenors applauded for their ability to bring a unique, ethereal quality to the classical repertoire. Artists like Philippe Jaroussky and Andreas Scholl exemplify the remarkable vocal agility and expressiveness characteristic of leading countertenors, often bringing a renewed sense of drama and emotional depth to the works they perform.

Handel: He Knew Humanity - The Handel Scholar Winton Dean

Alfred Deller

Album - 62 Tracks - Released March 13, 2026