Natasha Marsh

In 2007 Natasha Marsh reached the summit of the U.K. classical charts with her first release, Amour, a classical-crossover collection. The operatic soprano, born in Brecon, Wales, grew up with parents who encouraged music and at first aimed for a path in musical theater. Her interests eventually turned to opera, where she secured parts at Grange Park Opera, Music Theatre Wales, Opera Holland Park, and Glyndebourne Touring Opera. Growing recognition within opera circles simultaneously expanded her crossover opportunities, leading to a September 2006 contract with EMI Classics. The album appeared the next February, pairing operatic arias with material aimed at pop listeners. Although that blend drew criticism from certain traditional opera followers, Amour still entered the U.K. Classical Artist chart at number one and earned a nomination at the 2008 Classical BRIT Awards.