An opera singer is a highly skilled vocalist trained in the art of operatic singing, characterized by their powerful projection, extensive vocal range, and ability to convey emotions through music. They undergo rigorous vocal training to master techniques such as breath control, resonance, and vocal agility, enabling them to perform demanding roles in operas composed across various styles and languages. Opera singers often specialize in specific vocal types (soprano, mezzo-soprano, tenor, baritone, bass) suited to their natural vocal range and timbre, contributing to the rich tapestry of classical music through their dramatic and lyrical interpretations on stage.
1. Maria Callas
Maria Callas (1923-1977) was a legendary Greek-American soprano, often regarded as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. Known for her dramatic intensity, vocal range, and ability to embody complex characters, Callas left an indelible mark on the opera world.
Her career spanned from the 1940s to the early 1970s, during which she performed in major opera houses worldwide. Callas’ interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Bellini were celebrated for their emotional depth and technical brilliance.
Beyond her vocal prowess, Callas was known for her dramatic stage presence and commitment to her craft, often delving into the psychological complexities of her characters. Her recordings continue to be revered as definitive interpretations, influencing generations of opera singers.
Maria Callas’ legacy extends beyond her artistry; she remains an enduring icon of opera, celebrated for her profound influence on the genre and her contributions to the cultural landscape of classical music.
2. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti (1935-2007) was an Italian operatic tenor who is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time. Born in Modena, Italy, Pavarotti’s powerful and emotive voice, combined with his charismatic stage presence, made him a global superstar and household name.
Pavarotti’s career spanned over four decades, during which he performed in leading opera houses worldwide and became known for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His voice was characterized by its clarity, agility, and ability to effortlessly reach high notes with rich tone and emotion.
Beyond opera, Pavarotti popularized classical music through crossover performances and collaborations with pop and rock artists, such as performing “Nessun dorma” at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, which brought him immense popularity outside traditional opera circles.
Pavarotti’s contributions to opera and classical music were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Kennedy Center Honors. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts, including the Pavarotti & Friends charity concerts, which raised funds for humanitarian causes.
Luciano Pavarotti’s legacy continues to inspire opera singers and music lovers worldwide. His recordings and live performances remain iconic, showcasing his unparalleled talent, technical skill, and ability to connect with audiences through the beauty and emotion of his voice.
3. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is an acclaimed American soprano renowned for her versatility, vocal beauty, and interpretive depth across a wide range of repertoire. Born in 1959, Fleming has captivated audiences worldwide with her lush, lyric soprano voice and her ability to embody both dramatic and lyric roles.
Throughout her career, Fleming has excelled in performing works from Mozart and Strauss to contemporary operas and musical theater. Her vocal technique, characterized by its warmth, agility, and expressive power, has earned her accolades as one of the leading sopranos of her generation.
In addition to her operatic performances, Fleming has appeared in numerous concert and recital stages, collaborating with renowned conductors and orchestras. She is also known for her crossover into popular music, making her a versatile and widely respected artist.
Renée Fleming’s contributions to opera and vocal music have been recognized with multiple awards and honors, including the National Medal of Arts. She continues to inspire audiences with her artistry, dedication to her craft, and commitment to expanding the boundaries of classical music.
4. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is a Spanish opera singer, conductor, and arts administrator who is celebrated as one of the finest and most versatile tenors of his generation. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo’s career spans over six decades and encompasses a wide range of operatic roles, from lyric to dramatic tenor.
Domingo’s voice is characterized by its powerful yet lyrical qualities, with a remarkable ability to convey emotion and nuance. He has performed on the world’s leading opera stages, including the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House, interpreting roles in operas by Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, and more.
Beyond opera, Domingo has ventured into conducting and has served as a director and administrator for several opera companies, including the Washington National Opera and Los Angeles Opera. His dedication to promoting opera and supporting young artists has made him a respected figure in the opera community.
Throughout his career, Plácido Domingo has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He is known for his passionate performances, charismatic stage presence, and enduring impact on the world of opera.
Despite controversy later in his career related to allegations of sexual harassment, Domingo’s contributions to opera and classical music remain significant, and he continues to be regarded as one of the most influential and beloved figures in the history of opera.
5. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland (1926-2010) was an Australian dramatic coloratura soprano renowned for her extraordinary vocal range, technical mastery, and ability to perform the most demanding roles in opera. Born in Sydney, Australia, Sutherland rose to international prominence in the 1950s and 1960s and became one of the most celebrated opera singers of her time.
Sutherland’s voice was characterized by its agility, purity, and power, particularly in the upper register, which allowed her to excel in roles that required dazzling coloratura passages and high notes. She was especially acclaimed for her interpretations of bel canto operas by composers such as Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini.
Throughout her career, Sutherland performed at leading opera houses around the world, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Her collaborations with conductor Richard Bonynge, whom she married in 1954, were particularly notable for their revival and popularization of bel canto repertoire.
Sutherland’s performances and recordings earned her numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to music. Her contributions to opera were not only in her vocal prowess but also in her dedication to preserving and showcasing the beauty and technical demands of bel canto singing.
Joan Sutherland’s legacy continues to inspire opera singers and audiences alike. She remains revered for her impeccable technique, vocal brilliance, and the sheer beauty and power of her voice, ensuring her place as one of the greatest sopranos in the history of opera.
6. José Carreras
José Carreras is a Spanish tenor born in 1946, celebrated for his rich, expressive voice and charismatic stage presence. He gained international acclaim as one of the acclaimed “Three Tenors,” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo, during their iconic performances in the 1990s.
Carreras’ career spans decades, beginning with his operatic debut at age 11 and subsequently performing leading roles in operas by Verdi, Puccini, and others. Known for his lyrical and dramatic interpretations, Carreras’ voice is characterized by its warmth, clarity, and emotional depth, making him a favorite among audiences worldwide.
Beyond his operatic achievements, Carreras is also noted for his humanitarian efforts, particularly his work in leukemia research through the José Carreras International Leukaemia Foundation, which he founded after overcoming the disease himself.
José Carreras’ legacy as a world-class tenor and philanthropist continues to inspire admiration and respect, reflecting his enduring impact on the world of opera and his dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
7. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé (1933-2018) was a Spanish operatic soprano renowned for her exceptional vocal technique, versatility, and dramatic range. Born in Barcelona, Spain, Caballé’s career spanned over five decades, during which she became one of the leading sopranos of her generation.
Caballé’s voice was characterized by its purity, agility, and remarkable ability to sustain long phrases with effortless grace. She excelled in a wide range of roles, from bel canto operas by composers like Bellini and Donizetti to the dramatic works of Verdi and Puccini. Her interpretations were known for their emotional depth, technical precision, and exquisite vocal control.
One of Caballé’s most iconic collaborations was with tenor Freddie Mercury of Queen, with whom she recorded the hit song “Barcelona” in 1987. The song became an anthem for the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona and showcased Caballé’s versatility in blending opera with popular music.
Throughout her career, Caballé performed at major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden, and La Scala. She received numerous awards and honors, including the Prince of Asturias Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her contributions to opera and music.
Montserrat Caballé’s legacy extends beyond her vocal prowess; she was celebrated for her generosity, warmth, and dedication to her art. Her recordings and performances continue to inspire opera lovers and aspiring singers worldwide, ensuring her place as one of the greatest sopranos in opera history.
8. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson (1918-2005) was a Swedish dramatic soprano renowned for her powerful voice, exceptional range, and commanding stage presence. Born in Västra Karup, Sweden, Nilsson’s career spanned more than four decades, during which she became one of the leading Wagnerian sopranos of her generation.
Nilsson’s voice was celebrated for its clarity, strength, and ability to soar effortlessly over large orchestras. She was particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of Wagnerian roles such as Brünnhilde in “Der Ring des Nibelungen,” Isolde in “Tristan und Isolde,” and other challenging soprano roles in operas by Richard Strauss and Puccini.
Beyond her technical prowess, Nilsson’s performances were marked by her dramatic intensity and meticulous attention to detail, earning her praise as one of the definitive interpreters of Wagner’s heroines. Her recordings and live performances continue to be revered as benchmarks in the world of opera.
Birgit Nilsson’s legacy as a Wagnerian soprano and her contributions to the art of opera remain influential, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century.
9. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli (1921-2003) was an Italian tenor who is revered as one of the most legendary and charismatic opera singers of the 20th century. Born in Ancona, Italy, Corelli’s powerful voice, dramatic intensity, and magnetic stage presence made him a favorite among opera enthusiasts and critics alike.
Corelli’s voice was notable for its heroic and robust qualities, characterized by its ringing top notes and passionate delivery. He excelled in the dramatic and romantic repertoire, performing iconic roles in operas by Verdi, Puccini, and Giordano. His interpretations were marked by their emotional depth, technical brilliance, and thrilling vocal fireworks.
During his career, Corelli performed at renowned opera houses such as the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Vienna State Opera. He was particularly acclaimed for his partnership with soprano Birgit Nilsson, with whom he performed in many memorable productions.
Beyond his vocal talent, Corelli was known for his charismatic stage presence and electrifying performances, which captivated audiences and earned him a devoted following. His recordings and live performances continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts for their virtuosity and passion.
Franco Corelli’s legacy as one of the greatest tenors of all time endures, influencing generations of opera singers and leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera. His contributions to the art form remain celebrated for their technical brilliance, dramatic intensity, and unforgettable performances.
10. Mirella Freni
Mirella Freni (1935-2020) was an acclaimed Italian soprano known for her warm, lyric voice and expressive singing style. Born in Modena, Italy, Freni began her career in the 1950s and quickly rose to prominence as one of the leading sopranos of her generation.
Freni’s repertoire encompassed a wide range of roles in Italian opera, from Puccini and Verdi to Mozart and Tchaikovsky. Her voice was admired for its purity, agility, and emotional depth, allowing her to portray a diverse array of characters with nuance and sensitivity.
Throughout her career, Freni collaborated with renowned conductors and performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Her interpretations of roles such as Mimi in “La Bohème” and Desdemona in “Otello” were celebrated for their lyrical beauty and dramatic intensity.
Mirella Freni’s legacy as a beloved soprano endures through her recordings and performances, which continue to inspire opera lovers and aspiring singers alike. Her artistry and dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the world of opera and classical music.
11. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price is an American soprano who achieved international acclaim and recognition as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. Born in 1927 in Laurel, Mississippi, Price’s remarkable voice, technical mastery, and captivating stage presence solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in the world of opera.
Price’s voice was celebrated for its richness, warmth, and versatility, allowing her to excel in a wide range of roles from the dramatic to the lyrical repertoire. She made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1961, where she became known for her iconic performances in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Strauss, and Mozart.
Throughout her career, Leontyne Price broke barriers as one of the first African American opera singers to achieve international stardom. Her interpretations were renowned for their emotional depth, technical precision, and lyrical beauty, earning her acclaim from critics and audiences alike.
Price received numerous awards and honors, including 19 Grammy Awards, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Kennedy Center Honors. Her recordings and live performances continue to inspire opera lovers and aspiring singers worldwide, serving as a testament to her enduring influence and contributions to the art form.
Leontyne Price’s legacy extends beyond her vocal prowess; she is celebrated for her grace, dignity, and pioneering spirit in breaking racial barriers in opera. Her impact on opera and classical music remains profound, ensuring her place as one of the most revered sopranos in history.
12. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi (1922-2004) was an Italian soprano renowned for her velvety voice, exceptional phrasing, and emotive interpretations. Born in Pesaro, Italy, Tebaldi’s career spanned from the 1940s to the 1970s, during which she became one of the leading sopranos of her generation.
Tebaldi’s voice was celebrated for its lyricism, purity, and warmth, making her particularly acclaimed in the roles of Verdi and Puccini heroines such as Mimi in “La Bohème,” Desdemona in “Otello,” and Violetta in “La Traviata.” Her vocal technique allowed her to effortlessly convey the emotional depth and subtleties of each character she portrayed.
Throughout her career, Tebaldi performed at major opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Her collaborations with conductors like Arturo Toscanini and Herbert von Karajan further solidified her reputation as one of the preeminent sopranos of her time.
Renata Tebaldi’s recordings and live performances continue to be cherished for their beauty and sensitivity, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire opera enthusiasts and singers alike.
13. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling (1911-1960) was a Swedish tenor widely regarded as one of the greatest operatic voices of the 20th century. Born in Stora Tuna, Sweden, Björling’s career was marked by his exceptional vocal talent, lyrical phrasing, and emotive performances.
Björling’s voice was known for its clarity, power, and effortless ability to reach high notes with a smooth, velvety tone. He excelled in the Italian and French operatic repertoire, particularly in roles by Verdi, Puccini, and Bizet. His interpretations were characterized by their technical brilliance, lyrical beauty, and heartfelt expressiveness.
During his career, Björling performed at major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Covent Garden in London, and La Scala in Milan. He was celebrated for his partnership with soprano Zinka Milanov and for his recordings of operatic arias and songs, which continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts.
Beyond his vocal talent, Björling was admired for his humility, dedication to his craft, and ability to convey deep emotion through his singing. His recordings and live performances serve as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the greatest tenors in the history of opera.
Jussi Björling’s influence on opera and classical music remains profound, inspiring generations of singers and continuing to captivate audiences with his exceptional vocal artistry and timeless interpretations.
14. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli is an acclaimed Italian mezzo-soprano known for her virtuosic vocal technique, expressive performances, and extensive range. Born in Rome in 1966, Bartoli comes from a musical family and began her career at a young age, quickly rising to prominence in the world of opera and classical music.
Bartoli’s voice is characterized by its agility, warmth, and rich timbre, allowing her to excel in both lyric and coloratura roles. She is celebrated for her impeccable phrasing, dramatic intensity, and ability to convey emotion through her singing. Bartoli’s repertoire spans from Baroque to contemporary opera, with a particular focus on works by composers such as Mozart, Rossini, and Handel.
Throughout her career, Bartoli has performed at major opera houses and concert halls worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House Covent Garden, and Vienna State Opera. She has collaborated with leading conductors and orchestras, delivering memorable interpretations of operatic roles and concert repertoire.
In addition to her operatic career, Bartoli is known for her research into and revival of lesser-known works and forgotten composers, shedding light on hidden gems of the classical music repertoire. Her recordings have received critical acclaim and numerous awards, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her art.
Cecilia Bartoli’s contributions to opera and classical music have earned her widespread admiration and accolades, including several Grammy Awards and the title of “Commander of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.” She continues to be a beloved figure in the opera world, admired for her technical mastery, artistic depth, and passion for preserving and promoting the art form.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel is a renowned Welsh bass-baritone known for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and versatility across a wide range of operatic and concert repertoire. Born in Pant Glas, Wales, in 1965, Terfel rose to prominence in the 1990s and has since become one of the leading opera singers of his generation.
Terfel’s voice is celebrated for its rich timbre, clarity, and expressive depth, allowing him to excel in roles ranging from dramatic operatic characters to lighter comedic roles. He has portrayed iconic roles in operas by composers such as Mozart, Wagner, Verdi, and Puccini, earning acclaim for his vocal prowess and dramatic interpretation.
In addition to his operatic career, Bryn Terfel is a highly sought-after concert performer, known for his performances of Welsh folk songs, art songs, and oratorio works. He has collaborated with leading orchestras and conductors worldwide, showcasing his versatility and musicality in both opera and concert settings.
Bryn Terfel’s charismatic stage presence and ability to embody complex characters have made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike. His recordings and live performances continue to captivate listeners, solidifying his reputation as one of the preeminent bass-baritones in contemporary opera.