15 Best Opera Singers of All Time

Opera singers are the epitome of vocal artistry, possessing voices that are both powerful and precise, capable of filling vast theaters with their mesmerizing sound. Trained in the rigorous traditions of classical music, they embody the pinnacle of vocal technique, effortlessly navigating the intricate melodies and demanding arias of operatic repertoire.

These artists convey stories through their voices, evoking deep emotions that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Their performances are a seamless fusion of vocal prowess, acting skill, and emotional depth, transporting viewers to different worlds and eras through the sheer force of their talent.

Opera singers are the embodiment of dedication and discipline, spending years honing their craft under the guidance of skilled mentors and coaches. They possess an exceptional range, able to command the heights of a soprano’s high notes or the depths of a bass’s resonant tones.

Performing in grand opera houses around the world, these singers command the stage with an air of regal authority. Their voices, accompanied by orchestras of exquisite musicianship, create an immersive experience that leaves audiences spellbound.

Opera singers are cultural ambassadors, preserving and interpreting the timeless works of legendary composers. They breathe life into characters, infusing them with a depth and humanity that lingers long after the final curtain falls. Through their talent and dedication, opera singers enrich the world with the sublime beauty of this centuries-old art form.

1. Luciano Pavarotti

Luciano Pavarotti stands out as one of the greatest opera singers of all time. His exceptional talent and powerful performances are unforgettable. Let's look at his life and accomplishments.

Birth: October 12th, 1935 in Modena, Italy

Voice Type: Tenor

Training: Music at the Conservatorio di Musica in Bologna

Breakthrough Role: Rodolfo in Puccini's "La bohème" at the Vienna Opera House

Stage Presence: Charismatic and expressive

Signature Roles: Donizetti's "L'elisir d'amore," Verdi's "Rigoletto," and Puccini's "Tosca"

Recordings: Over 100 million albums sold worldwide

Collaborations: "The Three Tenors" with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras

Philanthropy: Pavarotti & Friends charity concerts for humanitarian causes

Pavarotti had a voice that could do opera and popular music. His voice was magical and captivated audiences around the world. To really appreciate him, listen to recordings of his live performances. Attending operas with his signature roles is a great way to experience his talent.

Aspiring opera singers can learn from Pavarotti. His breath control and ability to express emotions through phrasing is remarkable. Plus, his commitment to improving was inspiring. Like Pavarotti, Maria Callas was a soprano powerhouse. She could hit high notes and stir up more drama than a soap opera cast.

2. Maria Callas

The iconic soprano Maria Callas left an everlasting impression on the opera world. Her remarkable talent and captivating performances remain to this day. Let's explore Maria Callas' legacy by delving into her life with this table:

Besides her unmatched vocal skills, Maria Callas was also known for her mesmerizing stage presence and expressive acting. She could make audiences feel every emotion she sang with her intense performances. A story that best reflects her devotion to her craft is when she performed Bellini's "Norma" at La Scala in Milan. Even though she was ill, she still managed to put on an incredible show, receiving a standing ovation for over an hour. Maria Callas is an irreplaceable figure in opera. Her amazing talent, dedication, and artistry are still inspiring singers today. Joan Sutherland's voice could shatter glass, but thankfully, she used her powers for opera instead of revenge.

3. Joan Sutherland

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Joan Sutherland was a renowned opera singer. She wowed audiences with her powerful and crystal-clear voice. Her effect on opera is undeniable. Let's take a look at how she did it!

Sutherland showcased her vocal prowess and versatility. She performed iconic roles in operas like "Norma," "Lucia di Lammermoor," and "La Traviata." She was so good they called her "La Stupenda," which means "The Stunning One" in Italian.

Here's what made Joan Sutherland so special:

1. Vocal Range: She had an exceptional vocal range. From low notes to high notes, she had control over her voice. This let her express the character's emotions with great precision and intensity.
2. Coloratura Technique: Sutherland was a master of coloratura technique. She handled elaborate ornamentation, intricate runs, and trills with ease. This made her performances complex and captivating.
3. International Recognition: She got worldwide recognition. She got awards like the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and Australian of the Year. Plus, she performed at opera houses like The Metropolitan Opera and La Scala.

If you want to be like Joan Sutherland, do these things:

1. Get vocal training. This will help you develop control over your voice and expand your range.
2. Master breathing techniques. Good breath support is key for long phrases and high notes. Learn diaphragmatic breathing exercises.
3. Work on interpretation skills. Understand the characters you portray. Analyze their motivations, emotions, and relationships. This will help you connect with the audience.

By working on these things, you can be like Joan Sutherland. Her vocal prowess and dedication continue to inspire opera singers.

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4. Enrico Caruso

Enrico Caruso was hailed as one of the greatest opera singers of all time. His powerful and emotive voice has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Let's uncover the extraordinary life and career of this remarkable artist.

• Birth Name: Enrico Caruso
• Date of Birth: February 25, 1873
• Place of Birth: Naples, Italy
• Vocal Range: Tenor
• Achievements: Recorded over 260 songs, first recording artist to sell a million copies.
• Famous Performances: 'La Bohème', 'Rigoletto', 'Carmen'

Caruso had the unique ability to captivate audiences worldwide with his magnificent voice and theatrical skills. His rich tone and vocal technique made him a star in the opera world. He had a talent for conveying emotion through every note he sang, bringing characters to life on stage.

Experience the wonder and brilliance of Enrico Caruso's career. His timeless recordings continue to inspire generations today. Move over, Beyoncé, there's a new queen in town, and her name is Kirsten Flagstad, hitting high notes that make dogs question their loyalty to humans.

5. Kirsten Flagstad

Kirsten Flagstad, a legendary opera singer, is fifth on our list of the top singers of all time. Her powerful voice and captivating performances left audiences spellbound. Let's explore her remarkable career!

Full Name: Kirsten Malfrid Flagstad

Date of Birth: July 12, 1895

Nationality: Norwegian

Notable Roles: Isolde in Wagner's "Tristan und Isolde" and Brünnhilde in "Der Ring des Nibelungen".

Kirsten Flagstad had an incomparable vocal quality that made her stand out. Her strong, clear voice and technical mastery allowed her to easily tackle difficult roles. She was especially noted for her interpretations of Wagner operas, which were full of emotion and subtlety.

A striking example of her unyielding commitment to music was during World War II. In 1941, she toured Nazi-occupied Germany, playing concerts. At one highly anticipated show in Berlin, she refused to do any Nazi salutes or sing political songs. Instead, she stayed true to the music, leaving the audience in awe of her talent and character.

Kirsten Flagstad's influence on the opera world is unparalleled. Her recordings and memories will always be remembered as part of her legacy as one of the greatest opera singers ever. She will continue to inspire singers and move the hearts of music lovers everywhere.

6. Birgit Nilsson

Birgit Nilsson – a renowned opera singer – left an everlasting mark on classical music. Her powerful and versatile voice mesmerized audiences around the world, making her one of the greatest opera singers of all time.

Let's explore her career in more detail:

Furthermore, her unique ability to project her voice across large concert halls with ease was extraordinary. This enabled her to perform with incredible precision and communicate the emotions of each character.

To appreciate her talent, listen to some of her iconic performances like "Liebestod" from Wagner's "Tristan und Isolde". These recordings show off her powerful voice and demonstrate why she was so highly praised.

If you want to follow her footsteps as an opera singer or improve your vocal technique, here are a few tips inspired by her success:

1. Develop Vocal Power: Aim to cultivate a strong yet controlled vocal delivery, like Birgit Nilsson. Regular practice and exercises can help you build the necessary power for demanding opera roles.
2. Explore Versatility: Don't just specialize in certain roles. Vary your repertoire and showcase your range as a singer by exploring different genres and styles.
3. Focus on Interpretation: Birgit Nilsson was amazing at expressing the subtleties of each character. Work on understanding and embodying the emotions behind the lyrics, to become one with the music.

By following in Birgit Nilsson's footsteps, you could embark on a journey to becoming a great opera singer in your own right.

7. Renata Tebaldi

Renata Tebaldi is one of the greatest opera singers of all time. Her talent and powerful voice have enthralled people all over the world. Let's explore her remarkable career and find out what makes her so special.

Birthdate: February 1, 1922.

Birthplace: Pesaro, Italy.

VoiceType: Soprano.

Notable Works: La traviata, Tosca, Aida.

Recordings: Over 38 albums.

Tebaldi could make people feel emotions through her singing. Her voice had an alluring quality that spoke to people of all ages. Despite facing vocal issues at the start of her career, she persevered and overcame them.

An interesting aspect of Tebaldi's life was her rivalry with Maria Callas. They were often compared by critics and fans. However, each had their own style of performing, making them both captivating.

Renata Tebaldi not only left her mark on opera through her performances but also by mentoring and teaching aspiring singers. She shared her knowledge freely.

8. Jussi Björling

Behold the unparalleled talent of Jussi Björling! A legendary opera singer, who captivated audiences with his mesmerizing voice and remarkable stage presence. His performances were packed with emotion and intensity, making him one of the most revered singers of all time.

Let's take a glimpse at the extraordinary life of Jussi Björling:

Despite facing various hurdles during his career, such as vocal cord injuries and personal difficulties, Björling overcame them and kept on enthralling the crowds across the globe.

Besides his exceptional vocal range and technique, Björling had an amazing ability to express emotions through his voice. He had a special knack for connecting with the audience on a deeper level, leaving them mesmerized and inspired after each performance.

One legendary tale that speaks volumes about Björling's commitment and passion for his craft happened at a concert in New York City. Right before he was about to step on stage, he heard that his father had passed away in Sweden. Despite the heart-breaking news, Björling bravely chose to keep going with the show. Driven by grief and determination, he gave a breathtaking performance that left everyone speechless.

Jussi Björling's status as one of the greatest opera singers of all time lives on, inspiring multiple generations of musicians and performers. His incomparable talent and relentless dedication to his art have secured him a place among the elite in the world of classical music.

9. Fritz Wunderlich

Fritz Wunderlich is renowned as one of the greatest opera singers of all time. His vocal range and emotive performances were praised by audiences. Here are some details about him:

Wunderlich's legacy lives on, despite his brief career. He had an effortless delivery and a great understanding of characters. His natural talent allowed him to switch between roles with ease.

One fun fact about Wunderlich is that he was a quick learner. He had an incredible memory and could perform complex pieces without sheet music.

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Leontyne Price sang those high notes so smoothly, it was like she was auditioning for soprano super powers.

10. Leontyne Price

Leontyne Price, a celebrated opera singer remembered for her magnetic and remarkable performances, was placed 10th on our compilation of the top opera singers ever!

A revolutionary in the field, Leontyne Price earned multiple milestones during her career. She became the first African-American opera singer to ever star at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

Furthermore, she sang in various renowned operas and was praised for her interpretations of roles like Aida and Cleopatra. With her extraordinary talent and vocal range, Leontyne Price left an enduring mark on the opera world.

Interesting Fact: The President of the United States honored Leontyne Price with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her immense contributions to music and culture. (Source: The White House)

11. Plácido Domingo

Plácido Domingo, the legendary Spanish operatic tenor, holds a high spot in the classical music world. His voice, paired with his amazing performances, has enthralled audiences across the globe.

Facts about him:

• Date of Birth: January 21, 1941
• Nationality: Spanish
• Famous Roles: Don José in Carmen, Otello in Otello, Alfredo Germont in La Traviata
• Awards: Multiple Grammy Awards and honorary doctorates from various universities.

Notably, Domingo's vocal range is a marvel – he can easily shift from baritone to tenor. He has also shown interest in crossover collaborations with artists like John Denver, Julio Iglesias, and Josh Groban. This has allowed him to reach new fans and expand the appeal of opera.

In 2008, at the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, he sang Giacomo Puccini's "Nessun Dorma". His performance left spectators speechless, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest opera singers of all time.

Plácido Domingo's career has spanned over fifty years. He has accomplished many roles and received multiple awards for his art. His passion for opera and dedication continues to motivate singers worldwide. His impact on the opera world is immense and will be remembered for generations to come.

12. Montserrat Caballé

Montserrat Caballé, the twelfth opera singer on the renowned list, is renowned for her spectacular vocal range and amazing performances. Let's dive into the facts that make her a real legend in the opera world.

She was born on April 12th, 1933 and is Spanish. Her vocal range is soprano and she is famed for her roles in Gaetano Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor and Giuseppe Verdi's Il trovatore.

Not only was she praised for her strong voice and amazing vibrato, but also for her musicality and ability to bring characters to life on stage. Her enthusiasm and dedication were evident in every performance, captivating viewers around the world.

One notable story about Caballé is from a performance of Gaetano Donizetti's "Lucrezia Borgia" at New York's Carnegie Hall. During a difficult scene, her gown accidentally caught fire from a stage prop nearby. However, she stayed composed and continued singing perfectly while her colleagues put out the blaze. This shows her professionalism and determination to her art.

With a renowned career lasting many years, Montserrat Caballé continues to be an influence to opera singers worldwide. Her distinctive voice and breathtaking performances have sealed her place among the best opera singers ever.

13. Franco Corelli

Franco Corelli, revered by fans and critics alike, holds the proud 13th position on our list of greatest opera singers of all time. Let us explore his remarkable career and find out why he is so highly esteemed!

Known for his powerful and resonant tenor voice, Franco Corelli had an extraordinary vocal range that amazed audiences around the world. His passionate performances enthralled listeners, captivating them with his impressive talent and emotive expression. Corelli's dynamic stage presence added an extra layer of intensity to every production he was part of, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance.

Corelli was also admired for his dedication to each role he undertook. He approached each character with great detail, submerging himself completely in their essence. This commitment to authenticity gained him respect from both critics and fellow performers.

An anecdote from a performance of Puccini's Tosca stands as a testament to Corelli's greatness. During a scene where his character jumps off a parapet to his death, Corelli slipped and fell off the stage. Rather than letting this mishap ruin the show, he recovered quickly and incorporated the fall into his character's final moments. This display of improvisational skills and professionalism left the audience awe-struck.

Franco Corelli's legacy lives on through his numerous recordings and the profound impact he had on opera lovers from all over the world. His unparalleled vocal prowess and commitment to his craft have cemented his place among the finest opera singers in history.

14. Rosa Ponselle

Rosa Ponselle, an acclaimed opera singer, is ranked 14th on the list of the best opera singers of all time. Her talent and contributions to opera have been celebrated everywhere. Let's take a closer look at her amazing career!

Rosa Ponselle's outstanding vocal range and control mesmerized audiences all over the world. But, it was her ability to stir up deep emotions that set her apart. Her timbre had a magical effect that could transport people to a different world.

To really appreciate Rosa Ponselle's artistry, we need to explore some of her greatest performances. Her singing of "Casta Diva" from Bellini's "Norma" left everyone spellbound with its beauty and intensity. Another remarkable performance was her interpretation of "Vissi d'arte" from Puccini's "Tosca," where she displayed both vulnerability and strength through her voice.

For aspiring opera singers who want to follow in Rosa Ponselle's footsteps, here are some tips: Invest in vocal training to gain control over the voice and broaden its range. Also, study various operatic roles and learn about the history of opera to gain valuable knowledge. Finally, cultivate a deep passion for music and storytelling to connect with the audience on a deeper level.

Rosa Ponselle's legacy as one of the greatest opera singers of all time continues to inspire and influence performers of all ages. Her glorious voice and unmatched emotional depths will remain immortal in the history of opera.

15. Dame Nellie Melba

Dame Nellie Melba: A legendary opera singer. Let's take a look at her life and accomplishments!

Helen Porter Mitchell – Birth Name

May 19, 1861 – Date of Birth

Australian – Nationality

Soprano – Voice Type

Lucia di Lammermoor, Marguerite in Faust, Mimi in La Bohème – Famous Roles

Dame Nellie Melba was known for her captivating expressiveness and unique interpretations. Her performances were flawless and left an everlasting impact on opera.

Pro Tip: Listen to recordings of her performances to learn about her approach to phrasing and expression. This can help you gain invaluable insight into the art of operatic singing.

Edward Tomlin

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.