Opera singers are artists who specialize in performing operatic repertoire, which includes a wide range of vocal styles and characters. They are known for their powerful voices, expressive performances, and ability to convey complex emotions through music. Opera singers undergo rigorous vocal training to develop their voices and learn the techniques necessary for opera’s demanding roles. They often perform in large theaters without amplification, requiring them to project their voices over the orchestra. Opera singers also study languages to effectively communicate the lyrics of the operas they perform, adding depth and authenticity to their interpretations.
1. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, born on December 2, 1923, in New York City, was an American-born Greek soprano renowned for her exceptional vocal technique, dramatic interpretations, and commanding stage presence. Often referred to as “La Divina,” Callas is widely regarded as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. Her repertoire spanned a wide range of roles, from bel canto to the dramatic works of Verdi and Puccini.
Callas’s career was marked by her extraordinary ability to convey deep emotion through her voice and acting, bringing new life to her characters. She was known for her intense dedication to her art and her ability to tackle challenging roles with precision and artistry. Some of her most famous roles include Norma in Bellini’s “Norma,” Violetta in Verdi’s “La Traviata,” and Tosca in Puccini’s “Tosca.”
Despite her relatively short career, which was marred by vocal decline and personal struggles, Callas left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Her recordings continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. Maria Callas passed away on September 16, 1977, but her legacy as a transformative and iconic figure in opera endures.
2. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, born on October 12, 1935, in Modena, Italy, was an operatic tenor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time. Known for his powerful voice, exquisite phrasing, and charismatic stage presence, Pavarotti captivated audiences around the world with his emotive performances and remarkable vocal range.
Pavarotti’s career spanned over four decades, during which he performed in all the major opera houses and concert halls. He became particularly known for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His rendition of “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s “Turandot” became his signature aria and is one of the most recognizable and beloved opera arias of all time.
In addition to his operatic career, Pavarotti was also known for his humanitarian work, including his involvement in the “Pavarotti & Friends” charity concerts, which raised millions of dollars for various causes.
Pavarotti’s voice, with its rich, velvety tone and effortless high notes, made him a household name and a cultural icon. He passed away on September 6, 2007, but his legacy as one of the greatest tenors in the history of opera lives on through his recordings and the continued admiration of opera lovers worldwide.
3. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is an acclaimed American soprano renowned for her rich, sumptuous voice and captivating stage presence. Born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, in 1959, Fleming has achieved international fame for her performances in opera, concert, and recital. Her versatile repertoire spans from Baroque to contemporary works, but she is particularly celebrated for her interpretations of Richard Strauss, Mozart, and French opera.
Fleming’s career includes performances at the world’s leading opera houses, such as the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House. She has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and the National Medal of Arts. Known for her ability to convey deep emotion and character through her voice, Fleming has also made significant contributions to the popularization of opera, performing at major events like the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and the Super Bowl.
Beyond her singing career, Fleming is an advocate for arts education and mental health awareness, often engaging in initiatives to promote these causes. Her artistry and dedication have made her one of the most respected and beloved figures in the world of classical music.
4. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is a Spanish operatic tenor and conductor, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most versatile opera singers of all time. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo has enjoyed a career spanning over six decades, performing in an extraordinarily wide range of roles across the tenor and baritone repertoires.
Domingo’s powerful voice, dramatic intensity, and exceptional musicality have made him a standout performer in leading opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House. He has portrayed more than 150 roles, from Verdi and Puccini to Wagner and contemporary composers, setting a record for the most roles performed by a tenor.
In addition to his singing career, Domingo is an accomplished conductor and has served as the general director of the Los Angeles Opera and the Washington National Opera. He has also been instrumental in supporting young opera talent through initiatives like Operalia, the international opera competition he founded.
Domingo’s contributions to opera and music have earned him numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and the prestigious title of Kammersänger in Vienna. Despite facing controversies and health challenges in recent years, his impact on the world of opera remains profound, cementing his legacy as a true luminary in the performing arts.
5. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, born on November 7, 1926, in Sydney, Australia, was an Australian dramatic coloratura soprano renowned for her remarkable vocal range, agility, and stunning technique. Often referred to as “La Stupenda,” Sutherland was celebrated for her ability to effortlessly navigate the most demanding roles in the bel canto repertoire, particularly those by composers such as Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini.
Sutherland’s career spanned over four decades, during which she performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. She became known for her thrilling high notes, exquisite coloratura passages, and the sheer beauty and purity of her voice.
Some of Sutherland’s most famous roles include Lucia in Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor,” Elvira in Bellini’s “I Puritani,” and the title role in Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor.” Her recordings of these roles and others have become legendary, showcasing her extraordinary talent and artistry.
Sutherland’s contribution to opera was not only musical but also historical, as she played a significant role in the revival of interest in bel canto repertoire in the mid-20th century. Her performances set the standard for future generations of sopranos, and her legacy as one of the greatest singers of the 20th century endures. Joan Sutherland passed away on October 10, 2010, but her recordings and the memory of her stunning performances continue to inspire opera lovers worldwide.
6. José Carreras
José Carreras is a renowned Spanish operatic tenor celebrated for his beautiful, lyrical voice and expressive performances. Born in Barcelona in 1946, Carreras rose to international fame in the 1970s and 1980s with his performances in major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House.
Carreras is particularly known for his interpretations of Italian and French operas, with standout roles in works by Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His performances in operas such as “La Bohème,” “Tosca,” and “Il Trovatore” have been critically acclaimed, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion and nuance through his voice.
In 1987, Carreras was diagnosed with leukemia, but he made a remarkable recovery and returned to the stage, inspiring many with his resilience and dedication to his art. Following his recovery, he founded the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation to support research and treatment for the disease.
Carreras gained even wider recognition as one of the “Three Tenors,” alongside Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti. Their concerts, especially the one held on the eve of the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Rome, became legendary, bringing classical music to a broader audience.
Throughout his career, Carreras has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and honorary doctorates. His contributions to opera and his humanitarian efforts have left a lasting impact, making him one of the most respected and beloved figures in the world of classical music.
7. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé, born on April 12, 1933, in Barcelona, Spain, was a Spanish operatic soprano celebrated for her extraordinary vocal talent, impeccable technique, and remarkable versatility. Known for her exquisite lyric soprano voice and exceptional ability to interpret a wide range of roles, Caballé became one of the most revered opera singers of the 20th century.
Caballé’s career spanned over five decades, during which she performed in leading opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. She became particularly known for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Bellini, Donizetti, Verdi, and Puccini, showcasing her vocal agility, expressive phrasing, and emotional depth.
Some of Caballé’s most famous roles include Norma in Bellini’s “Norma,” Violetta in Verdi’s “La Traviata,” and the title role in Puccini’s “Tosca.” Her performances were marked by her stunning vocal control, exquisite pianissimos, and the sheer beauty and warmth of her voice.
Caballé’s collaborations with other renowned singers, conductors, and composers further cemented her status as one of the greatest sopranos of her time. Her recordings, which span a wide range of repertoire, continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts worldwide.
Caballé’s contribution to opera was not only musical but also cultural, as she played a significant role in popularizing opera and bringing it to a broader audience. Her legacy as one of the most iconic and influential opera singers of the 20th century endures, and she remains a revered figure in the world of classical music. Montserrat Caballé passed away on October 6, 2018, but her legacy as a true operatic legend lives on.
8. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson was a legendary Swedish dramatic soprano renowned for her powerful voice, incredible stamina, and commanding stage presence. Born in Västra Karup, Sweden, in 1918, Nilsson rose to international prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century.
Nilsson was especially celebrated for her interpretations of the demanding roles in the operas of Richard Wagner, Richard Strauss, and Giuseppe Verdi. Her performances as Brünnhilde in Wagner’s “Ring Cycle,” Isolde in “Tristan und Isolde,” and Turandot in Puccini’s opera of the same name are considered definitive. Her voice, characterized by its exceptional power, clarity, and range, allowed her to master these challenging roles with apparent ease.
Nilsson performed at all the major opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House. She was also a regular at the Bayreuth Festival, the premier venue for Wagnerian opera, where her performances were highly acclaimed.
Her recordings and live performances have left a lasting legacy, setting a high standard for future generations of singers. Nilsson received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including being named a Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and receiving Sweden’s prestigious Litteris et Artibus medal.
Birgit Nilsson’s extraordinary talent and dedication to her craft have made her an enduring icon in the world of opera, and her influence continues to inspire singers and audiences alike. She passed away in 2005, but her legacy as one of the greatest dramatic sopranos in history remains firmly intact.
9. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, born on April 8, 1921, in Ancona, Italy, was an Italian tenor renowned for his powerful voice, passionate singing style, and electrifying stage presence. Considered one of the greatest tenors of the 20th century, Corelli was known for his remarkable vocal range, ringing top notes, and thrilling intensity in both lyric and dramatic roles.
Corelli’s career spanned over three decades, during which he performed in leading opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He became particularly known for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti, showcasing his vocal prowess, dramatic flair, and remarkable stamina.
Some of Corelli’s most famous roles include Calaf in Puccini’s “Turandot,” Manrico in Verdi’s “Il Trovatore,” and Cavaradossi in Puccini’s “Tosca.” His performances were marked by his thrilling high notes, passionate delivery, and magnetic stage presence, earning him a reputation as one of the most exciting and charismatic tenors of his time.
Corelli’s recordings, which capture the power and beauty of his voice, continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts worldwide. His influence on subsequent generations of tenors is undeniable, and he remains a legendary figure in the world of opera.
Franco Corelli passed away on October 29, 2003, but his legacy as one of the greatest tenors in the history of opera lives on through his recordings and the continued admiration of opera lovers around the world.
10. Mirella Freni
Mirella Freni, born on February 27, 1935, in Modena, Italy, was an Italian soprano celebrated for her exquisite voice, remarkable acting ability, and profound interpretations of a wide range of operatic roles. Known for her warm, lyrical voice and impeccable technique, Freni captivated audiences and critics alike with her captivating performances and emotional depth.
Freni’s career spanned over five decades, during which she performed in leading opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She became particularly known for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart, showcasing her versatility and artistry.
Some of Freni’s most famous roles include Mimi in Puccini’s “La Bohème,” Desdemona in Verdi’s “Otello,” and the title role in Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly.” Her performances were marked by her exquisite phrasing, emotional depth, and ability to inhabit her characters with authenticity and grace.
Freni’s collaborations with other renowned singers, conductors, and directors further solidified her status as one of the greatest sopranos of her time. Her recordings, which capture the beauty and purity of her voice, continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts worldwide.
Freni’s contribution to opera was not only musical but also cultural, as she played a significant role in preserving and promoting the art form. Her legacy as one of the most beloved and respected sopranos in the history of opera endures, and she remains an inspiration to singers and opera lovers around the world. Mirella Freni passed away on February 9, 2020, but her legacy as a true operatic legend lives on.
11. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price is an acclaimed American soprano, celebrated for her rich, warm voice and commanding presence on both the opera stage and in concert. Born in Laurel, Mississippi, in 1927, Price rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the first African American singers to achieve international fame in opera.
Price’s exceptional talent and artistry were evident in her performances of roles such as Aida in Verdi’s “Aida,” Leonora in “Il Trovatore,” and the title role in Puccini’s “Tosca.” Her voice, characterized by its velvety timbre, remarkable range, and emotional intensity, made her particularly suited to the demanding repertoire of Verdi and Puccini. Her portrayal of these roles received widespread critical acclaim and helped to break racial barriers in the world of opera.
Price made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1961 in the role of Leonora in Verdi’s “Il Trovatore,” a performance that marked the beginning of a distinguished career at the Met, where she became one of the leading sopranos of her generation. She was also a notable performer at other major opera houses, including La Scala, Covent Garden, and the Vienna State Opera.
In addition to her operatic career, Price has been a highly successful recitalist and recording artist. Her recordings have earned numerous awards, including more than a dozen Grammy Awards. Her interpretations of art songs, spirituals, and orchestral works are also highly regarded.
Leontyne Price’s contributions to opera and her groundbreaking achievements as an African American artist have earned her numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts. Her legacy as a trailblazer and one of the greatest sopranos of all time continues to inspire and influence singers and audiences around the world.
12. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, born on February 1, 1922, in Pesaro, Italy, was an Italian soprano renowned for her rich, velvety voice, exquisite phrasing, and profound interpretations of a wide range of operatic roles. Known for her lyrical and dramatic soprano voice, Tebaldi captivated audiences and critics alike with her exceptional vocal beauty and emotional depth.
Tebaldi’s career spanned over three decades, during which she performed in leading opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She became particularly known for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Giordano, showcasing her versatility and artistry.
Some of Tebaldi’s most famous roles include Mimi in Puccini’s “La Bohème,” Desdemona in Verdi’s “Otello,” and the title role in Puccini’s “Tosca.” Her performances were marked by her exquisite vocal control, emotional depth, and ability to convey the nuances of her characters with sensitivity and grace.
Tebaldi’s recordings, which capture the beauty and power of her voice, continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts worldwide. Her collaborations with other renowned singers, conductors, and directors further solidified her status as one of the greatest sopranos of her time.
Tebaldi’s contribution to opera was not only musical but also cultural, as she played a significant role in popularizing and preserving the art form. Her legacy as one of the most beloved and respected sopranos in the history of opera endures, and she remains an inspiration to singers and opera lovers around the world. Renata Tebaldi passed away on December 19, 2004, but her legacy as a true operatic legend lives on.
13. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, born on February 5, 1911, in Borlänge, Sweden, was a Swedish tenor renowned for his exceptional voice, lyrical phrasing, and emotive interpretations of a wide range of operatic roles. Known for his rich, powerful voice and effortless high notes, Björling captivated audiences and critics alike with his remarkable vocal talent and artistry.
Björling’s career spanned over three decades, during which he performed in leading opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. He became particularly known for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Bizet, showcasing his versatility and vocal prowess.
Some of Björling’s most famous roles include Rodolfo in Puccini’s “La Bohème,” the Duke of Mantua in Verdi’s “Rigoletto,” and Don José in Bizet’s “Carmen.” His performances were marked by his exquisite vocal control, emotional depth, and ability to convey the passion and intensity of his characters.
Björling’s recordings, which capture the beauty and power of his voice, continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts worldwide. His collaborations with other renowned singers, conductors, and directors further solidified his status as one of the greatest tenors of his time.
Björling’s contribution to opera was not only musical but also cultural, as he played a significant role in popularizing and preserving the art form. His legacy as one of the most beloved and respected tenors in the history of opera endures, and he remains an inspiration to singers and opera lovers around the world. Jussi Björling passed away on September 9, 1960, but his legacy as a true operatic legend lives on.
14. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli is an internationally renowned Italian mezzo-soprano celebrated for her exceptional vocal technique, expressive performances, and adventurous repertoire choices. Born in Rome in 1966, Bartoli has captivated audiences and critics alike with her dynamic interpretations of Baroque, Classical, and early Romantic music.
Bartoli’s career took off in the late 1980s, and she quickly became known for her agility, warm timbre, and ability to bring depth and nuance to her roles. She has performed in the world’s leading opera houses, including La Scala, the Metropolitan Opera, and the Royal Opera House. Her portrayals of roles in operas by composers such as Mozart, Rossini, and Handel are particularly acclaimed. Notable roles include Rosina in “Il Barbiere di Siviglia,” Cherubino in “Le Nozze di Figaro,” and Cleopatra in “Giulio Cesare.”
In addition to her opera performances, Bartoli is an accomplished recitalist and recording artist. She has released numerous best-selling albums, often focusing on lesser-known works and composers. Her projects have included exploring the music of composers like Antonio Vivaldi and Agostino Steffani, bringing renewed attention to their works.
Bartoli is also known for her commitment to historical performance practice, often collaborating with period instrument ensembles and conductors. Her innovative approach to programming and her ability to infuse each performance with emotional intensity and technical precision have earned her numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and the prestigious Victoire de la Musique.
Cecilia Bartoli’s contributions to the world of classical music extend beyond her performances; she has also served as the artistic director of the Salzburg Whitsun Festival. Her dedication to her art and her passion for uncovering and revitalizing forgotten musical treasures have made her one of the most influential and beloved mezzo-sopranos of her generation.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, born on November 9, 1965, in Pant Glas, Wales, is a Welsh bass-baritone celebrated for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and versatility across a wide range of operatic and concert repertoire. Known for his rich, resonant voice and charismatic performances, Terfel has captivated audiences worldwide with his exceptional vocal talent and dramatic interpretations.
Terfel’s career has spanned over three decades, during which he has performed in leading opera houses and concert halls around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Vienna State Opera. He has become particularly known for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Mozart, Wagner, and Verdi, showcasing his versatility and vocal prowess.
Some of Terfel’s most famous roles include Figaro in Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro,” Wotan in Wagner’s “The Ring Cycle,” and Falstaff in Verdi’s “Falstaff.” His performances are marked by his powerful vocal delivery, nuanced phrasing, and ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters.
Terfel’s recordings, which capture the beauty and power of his voice, continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts worldwide. His collaborations with other renowned singers, conductors, and directors further solidify his status as one of the greatest bass-baritones of his time.
Terfel’s contribution to opera and classical music has been significant, as he continues to inspire audiences with his exceptional talent and artistry. His legacy as one of the most beloved and respected singers in the world of opera endures, and he remains an inspiration to singers and music lovers around the world.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
