Joyce DiDonato in concert, Barbican

When Joyce Didonato is in town it's time to clear the diary: this brilliant singer and exciting communicator is always top of the bill at Culture Whisper.

While we Londoners are lucky to see her appear the Royal Opera House on a pretty regular basis, an evening in just her company is a rarer event, and one to savour. The mezzo-soprano's commanding stage presence and vast repertoire mean that a DiDonato recital is a full-scale event in itself.

For one night only at the Barbican Concert Hall, the American diva is joined by accompanist Craig Terry in a programme of music that considers our recent lives of separation. In My Solitude is the title, but the singer is far from alone – composers Handel, Haydn and Mahler will all be there in works of reflection.

Joyce DiDonato was electrifying in the title role of Agrippina at the Royal Opera House. Photo: Bill Cooper

But no occasion with DiDonato is going to end on a downbeat. Cue music-makers from the lighter end of the concert spectrum, among them Duke Ellington, whose number (In My) Solitude lends its title to the evening.

DiDonato sang as a child and arrived on the opera scene via musical theatre, her feeling for the Great American Songbook developing early in her distinguished career. Having made an impact in her native America, she made her debut at La Scala, Milan, in 2000, and shortly after appeared for the first time at the Royal Opera House, the start of a 20-year special relationship.

She is adored by London audiences for her vivid presence, directness of communication and flawless technique. In My Solitude presents a rare chance to experience all these at first hand. Tickets will sell fast.