Fedora Barbieri (1920-2003) was an Italian mezzo-soprano, one of the great Italian lower voices of the post-war period. She was especially admired in Verdi, verismo and bel canto repertory.

In the Pristine catalogue she appears in Verdi and Ponchielli, including recordings with Maria Callas, Jussi Björling, Leonard Warren and Zinka Milanov.

Barbieri’s voice was rich, firm and vividly theatrical, with the weight needed for Amneris, Azucena and other large dramatic roles. She brought heat without losing vocal focus.

Her page is essential among the Italian opera entries. Barbieri’s mezzo has the flavour of dark wine poured into a silver cup.