When classical opera meets rock, the result can be electrifying—and that’s exactly what happened during the 2023 season of The Voice of Germany. The duet between Alina Zamalieva and Niclas Scholz performing “The Phantom of the Opera” quickly became one of the season’s most memorable and talked-about moments. Their performance wasn’t just a clash of styles; it was a brilliant display of contrast, chemistry, and daring artistry.
Alina Zamalieva
Alina, a classically trained soprano originally from Russia and now based in Switzerland, brought theatrical precision and operatic power to the stage. Her experience in opera and musical theater gave her the technical foundation and emotional depth that made her vocals soar with clarity and control. Throughout rehearsals, Alina took on a supportive role, guiding Niclas through the demands of this complex, structured piece. Her ability to blend technical mastery with heartfelt expression helped elevate the performance into something truly special.
Niclas Scholz
Niclas, by contrast, was a 22-year-old rocker known for his gritty, gravelly voice and a passion for bands like Motörhead. Accustomed to roaring guitars and raw energy, stepping into an operatic duet was a challenge he had never faced before. But his willingness to learn and adapt, combined with the raw emotion he brought to the song, created a powerful duality with Alina’s classical style. Niclas’s edgy delivery added a unique intensity that perfectly balanced the elegance of the piece.
The chemistry between Alina and Niclas was undeniable when they took the stage for the Battle round. Alina’s crystalline vocals contrasted beautifully with Niclas’s commanding rock tone, turning the iconic duet into a fresh and captivating reinterpretation. Their performance stunned the studio audience and judges alike—Shirin David called it the best Battle she had ever seen, and Ronan Keating was visibly moved by Alina’s remarkable voice.
Faced with such extraordinary talent, coaches Bill and Tom Kaulitz made the rare decision to advance both singers to the next round. The duet quickly went viral, gathering tens of millions of views and earning praise from fans around the world. Comments flooded in, describing it as “spine-chilling” and “a moment of pure magic,” proving that the fusion of opera and rock had struck a powerful chord.
After this breakthrough moment, Alina continued to impress with a haunting performance of “Adagio”, solidifying her reputation as one of the most technically gifted contestants of the season. Though she didn’t reach the finals, her impact was lasting. Meanwhile, Niclas embraced his versatility, delivering standout performances of “Human” and “I Want It All”. He also released a rock single after the show, expanding his fanbase far beyond the usual audience.
Their duet was more than just a memorable TV moment—it was a reminder that music is about connection and the courage to take risks. Neither tried to overshadow the other; instead, they listened and adapted, creating a performance greater than the sum of its parts. In a season filled with highlights, this one didn’t just entertain—it inspired.