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Puccini’s final opera, Turandot, lay unfinished at the time of the composer’s death in 1924. The work remains in the repertoire of opera houses all over the world and this legendary aria Nessun dorma (no-one shall sleep), is known and loved by all - opera-lovers and opera-haters. One listen to Jonas Kaufmann in this recording from Last Night of the Proms and you’ll understand why!

Set in Peking, Turandot tells the story of a terrifying but beautiful Chinese princess who will marry only a man of royal blood who solves three riddles and the suitors who fail face execution. As the final act opens in the moonlit palace gardens, Calaf reflects on the princess’s ultimatum, her cruelty, and his confidence that his secret will remain hidden, bringing him – and love – the ultimate victory.