A mezzo-soprano is a type of female singing voice that lies between the soprano and contralto ranges. Typically, mezzo-sopranos have a vocal range that spans from A3 to A5, allowing them to sing both higher and lower notes than sopranos. This voice type is often characterized by a rich, warm tone and is commonly used in opera, classical music, and choral works. In opera, mezzo-sopranos frequently portray roles such as witches, mothers, or trouser roles, where they play male characters. Famous mezzo-sopranos include Cecilia Bartoli and Marilyn Horne, who have made significant contributions to the genre. Their unique vocal qualities make them essential in various musical compositions.