On the iconic stage of La Scala on June 14, 2015, Jonas Kaufmann faced an unexpected moment during his performance of “Nessun Dorma” — and turned it into a lesson in grace, professionalism, and true artistry.

Jonas Kaufmann: An Evening With Puccini - Official Trailer (In cinemas from 11 Feb)

In one of the world’s most demanding opera houses, where audiences are famously critical, Kaufmann kept his composure, handled the situation with elegance, and returned stronger than ever. His voice, presence, and charisma reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the greatest tenors of our time.

On June 14, 2015, at the prestigious La Scala in Milan, Jonas Kaufmann performed the aria “Nessun Dorma” in a special concert honoring the works of Puccini. During the performance, he had an unexpected incident when he forgot the lyrics.

However, with professionalism and composure, Kaufmann quickly regained his composure and continued the performance excellently, leaving the audience in awe. ​

Jonas Kaufmann ✬ "Nessun Dorma"/from Turandot ~ Milan Scala - YouTube

The event was recorded on the DVD “An Evening with Puccini”, released by Sony Classical, which includes Kaufmann’s live performances at La Scala. The album received critical acclaim, with his powerful and emotional singing of Puccini’s works. ​

The audience at La Scala, known for being difficult, gave Kaufmann a long standing ovation, expressing their admiration for his talent and courage. The event was not only a memorable moment in Kaufmann’s career, but also a testament to the power of live performance.​

To experience this performance, you can watch the video on YouTube: