Joyce DiDonato
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SJcuqaelqwE&NR=1
William Burden and Nathan Gunn
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3xyp54bZqs&feature=related
Having not heard Joyce DiDonato before, I may not have initially thought her a mezzo based on this performance--it's interesting to watch her change her vocal color as she ascends her register. Her singing seems to be very 'grounded' throughout yet, she sings with levity that allows her higher register to sound effortless. I'm not sure what that is though. It seems though that the ease with which she navigates her upper register can only be the result of a very grounded sound. Almost like a highrise or tall building-- taller structures have deeper foundation and sub-basement structures.
As you stated, Burden and Gunn's duet is a great example of 'grounded' singing in the male voice across their entire range. This duet is particularly useful because it allows one to contrast the 'grounded' sound of a tenor and baritone voice. Watching the physical mechanics behind both singers breathe indicates that each is very relaxed but also, supported. Once the breath is taken both Nathan and William support the phrase with the breath--the upper torso, neck and shoulders stay relaxed while the abdominal muscles remain contracted to support the sound.
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