'Largo al factotum' serves as the grand entrance music for Figaro, the renowned barber character in Rossini's comedic opera, The Barber of Seville.

Since this aria introduces the audience to the opera's heroic main character, its music is jubilant, ostentatious, and informative in nature, just as one would expect.

During a performance at Classic FM Live, a night of popular opera highlights at the Royal Albert Hall in April, American baritenor Michael Spyres flawlessly executed the aria, fulfilling its purpose splendidly.

Spyres began at the rear of the venue, charmingly and stylishly serenading the crowds with the initial 'la la la's, effortlessly handling the highly technical aspects of the aria. With impressive control over a three-octave range, encompassing the vocal abilities of both a standard baritone and a tenor, Spyres expertly maneuvered Rossini's vocal acrobatics, even showcasing a range of voices akin to the late Robin Williams.

With over eight million views on Classic FM's social media platforms, this aria has resonated with viewers of all ages, possibly due to its prominent place in popular culture.

No pop-culture reference involving Rossini's work is as cherished as the opening of the 1993 film Mrs. Doubtfire, where the multi-talented Robin Williams sings the aria as the credits roll.

Witness Spyres' flawless performance above and refer to the video below to learn more about his vocal range. The triumphant beginning of the Rossini aria proclaims, "Make way for the city's problem-solver." Figaro, the character, is the titular barber from the Spanish city, and the opera chronicles his clever and fantastical adventures.

The aria, 'Largo al factotum,' performed in act one, is a bombastic and exuberant song, featuring flamboyantly high notes and a devilishly challenging libretto.

Despite a shaky premiere in 1816, the opera ultimately achieved tremendous success.

Even Ludwig van Beethoven praised Rossini for his composition, stating, "So you are the composer of Il Barbiere di Siviglia, I congratulate you.

"It will be performed as long as Italian opera exists."

Fortunately, Beethoven's prediction came true, and we are grateful for it!