Opera singers, the maestros of the classical vocal world, are virtuosos who navigate the intricate and emotive realms of opera, a genre that demands both vocal prowess and dramatic expression. With voices that soar across vast auditoriums, opera singers convey the heart and soul of timeless stories through arias, duets, and ensembles.
These artists undergo rigorous training, mastering vocal techniques that allow them to command a wide range, from delicate pianissimos to powerful fortissimos. The operatic repertoire spans centuries and cultures, from the grandeur of Italian bel canto to the emotional depth of German lieder.
Opera singers don’t merely vocalize; they embody characters, infusing every note with passion, nuance, and theatricality. Whether portraying tragic heroines or comedic buffoons, their performances are a seamless fusion of vocal and dramatic artistry.
Opera stages serve as their canvas, and the orchestra, their collaborative partner, creating a harmonious tapestry of sound. Beyond the stage, opera singers enchant audiences in concert halls, showcasing the versatility of their voices in recitals and oratorios.
From legendary figures like Maria Callas to contemporary luminaries, opera singers command a unique space in the musical landscape, bridging tradition and innovation. Their ability to convey the depth of human experience through the universal language of music makes opera singers true interpreters of the human condition.
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti (1935–2007) was an internationally acclaimed Italian operatic tenor, often regarded as one of the most successful and beloved tenors in the history of opera. Born on October 12, 1935, in Modena, Italy, Pavarotti’s powerful and emotive voice, along with his charismatic stage presence, contributed to his widespread popularity.
Pavarotti began his professional career in the early 1960s, gaining recognition for his performances in various Italian opera houses. His breakthrough came in 1963 when he substituted for an ailing tenor at Covent Garden in London, receiving critical acclaim. This marked the beginning of his international success.
One of Pavarotti’s defining moments was his association with The Three Tenors, a collaboration with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras. Their first performance together took place before the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Rome, and subsequent concerts became highly successful, showcasing their individual talents and camaraderie.
Pavarotti’s repertoire included a wide range of operatic roles, with a focus on the works of composers like Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His performances of arias like “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s “Turandot” became particularly renowned and contributed to his mainstream popularity.
Beyond the opera stage, Pavarotti embraced crossover success, collaborating with popular artists from various genres and achieving chart success. His recording of “Nessun Dorma” for the 1990 World Cup became a global sensation and further elevated his status.
Throughout his career, Luciano Pavarotti received numerous awards and honors, including Grammy Awards and Kennedy Center Honors. He also engaged in philanthropy, using his talent to support various charitable causes.
Luciano Pavarotti’s legacy extends far beyond the opera world. His impact on bringing classical music to a broader audience and his contributions to the popularization of opera make him a cultural icon. Pavarotti passed away on September 6, 2007, but his recordings and performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas (1923–1977) was an extraordinary Greek-American soprano, often regarded as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. Born on December 2, 1923, in New York City, Callas possessed a remarkable vocal range, dramatic intensity, and a profound interpretative ability that made her a dominant force in the world of opera.
Callas rose to international prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, making her mark through her performances in major opera houses around the world. Her repertoire included roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Bellini, and Donizetti. Callas was particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of tragic heroines, and her ability to infuse characters with emotion and depth set her apart.
One of her most famous collaborations was with the Italian conductor Tullio Serafin, and she became closely associated with the bel canto repertoire. Her performances in operas like “Norma” and “Tosca” are often considered legendary.
Maria Callas was not only celebrated for her vocal prowess but also for her dramatic stage presence and commitment to her roles. She approached her performances with a level of intensity and emotional engagement that captivated audiences.
Despite her extraordinary talent, Callas faced challenges in her personal and professional life, including a controversial love affair with shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. Her career saw periods of triumph and decline, but she remains an enduring figure in the history of opera.
Callas’s voice exhibited a distinctive timbre, and her recordings continue to be influential. Her interpretations and recordings of operatic masterpieces remain benchmarks for aspiring opera singers. Maria Callas passed away on September 16, 1977, but her legacy lives on, and she is remembered as one of the most iconic and influential figures in the world of opera.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo, born on January 21, 1941, in Madrid, Spain, is a world-renowned operatic tenor and conductor. Often referred to as “the King of Opera,” Domingo has had a prolific and diverse career spanning over six decades. In addition to his exceptional vocal talent, he is known for his versatility, having successfully tackled a wide range of operatic roles and musical genres.
Domingo began his career as a baritone but later transitioned to the tenor repertoire. His voice is characterized by its richness, power, and expressiveness. He has performed in numerous leading opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London.
One of Domingo’s notable contributions to the world of opera was his collaboration with Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras to form “The Three Tenors.” Their performances, starting with the 1990 World Cup concert in Rome, brought opera to a global audience and became immensely popular.
In addition to his accomplishments as a tenor, Plácido Domingo has ventured into conducting and administration. He has held leadership roles with major opera companies, including the Washington National Opera and the Los Angeles Opera. Domingo’s contributions to the opera world have earned him numerous awards and honors.
Domingo’s repertoire includes a wide range of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, and more. Some of his signature roles include Otello, Don José in “Carmen,” and Canio in “Pagliacci.”
Despite facing controversies related to allegations of sexual harassment, Domingo has maintained an active career. His impact on the world of opera, his extensive discography, and his enduring popularity contribute to his legacy as one of the most influential and celebrated figures in the history of classical music.
4. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, born on February 14, 1959, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, is an American soprano renowned for her exceptional vocal artistry and versatility. Widely considered one of the most celebrated opera singers of her generation, Fleming’s illustrious career spans opera, concert performances, and recordings.
Known for her lyric soprano voice with a rich and velvety timbre, Fleming has graced the stages of major opera houses worldwide. Her repertoire encompasses a broad range, including works by Mozart, Strauss, Verdi, and contemporary composers. Fleming’s interpretations are marked by a combination of technical mastery and an innate ability to convey the emotional depth of the characters she portrays.
Beyond the opera stage, Renée Fleming has showcased her versatility by exploring various genres, from jazz and pop to Broadway. She has collaborated with musicians outside the classical realm, expanding her artistic horizons and reaching diverse audiences.
Fleming’s list of accolades includes multiple Grammy Awards, and she has been honored with the National Medal of Arts, making her a trailblazer in the classical music world. As a committed advocate for arts education, she has worked to inspire the next generation of performers.
With her captivating stage presence, vocal brilliance, and commitment to artistic exploration, Renée Fleming continues to be a revered figure in the world of classical music, leaving an indelible mark on opera and beyond.
5. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso (1873–1921) was an Italian operatic tenor, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential singers in the history of opera. Born on February 25, 1873, in Naples, Italy, Caruso’s exceptional voice and artistic interpretation made him a dominant figure in the operatic world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Caruso’s career began in the 1890s in Italian regional opera houses. His breakthrough came in 1902 when he sang at La Scala in Milan, earning critical acclaim. His reputation rapidly spread, leading to engagements in major opera houses across Europe and the United States.
Known for his powerful and expressive voice, Caruso excelled in a wide range of roles, including those in operas by Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and others. His vocal technique, combined with his ability to convey emotion, set him apart as a true dramatic tenor.
One of Caruso’s most celebrated roles was as Rodolfo in Puccini’s “La Bohème.” His interpretation of this character became iconic, and his recordings of arias from this opera are still treasured today.
Enrico Caruso was among the first opera singers to embrace the recording industry, making numerous recordings that played a significant role in popularizing opera. His recordings of arias and songs became bestsellers and contributed to the widespread appreciation of classical music.
Caruso’s career was tragically cut short when he died at the age of 48 on August 2, 1921, due to complications from an acute respiratory ailment. His untimely death marked the end of an era, but his recordings continue to be influential, and he remains a symbol of excellence in the world of opera. Enrico Caruso’s legacy as a legendary tenor endures, and his impact on the popularization of opera and classical vocal music remains significant.
6. Joan Sutherland
Dame Joan Sutherland, born on November 7, 1926, in Sydney, Australia, was one of the most acclaimed dramatic coloratura sopranos of the 20th century. Renowned for her exceptional vocal agility, stunning high notes, and commanding stage presence, Sutherland became a leading figure in the opera world, earning the affectionate nickname “La Stupenda.”
Sutherland’s career reached its zenith during the bel canto revival, where she excelled in the works of composers such as Gaetano Donizetti, Vincenzo Bellini, and Gioachino Rossini. Her voice possessed a remarkable flexibility that allowed her to navigate the intricate ornamentations and demands of these challenging roles.
One of Joan Sutherland’s career-defining moments occurred in 1959 when she triumphed at Covent Garden in a landmark performance of Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor.” This success marked the beginning of her international stardom.
Throughout her illustrious career, Sutherland collaborated with her husband, conductor Richard Bonynge, who played a crucial role in guiding her through the bel canto repertoire. Her interpretations of roles like Violetta in Verdi’s “La Traviata” and the title role in Bellini’s “Norma” became legendary.
Dame Joan Sutherland’s contributions to opera were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Merit and the Companion of the Order of Australia. Her legacy extends beyond her vocal prowess; she mentored and inspired generations of opera singers, leaving an indelible mark on the art form. Joan Sutherland passed away on October 10, 2010, but her recordings and performances continue to captivate audiences, ensuring her place as one of the greatest sopranos in opera history.
7. Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli, born on September 22, 1958, in Lajatico, Tuscany, Italy, is an internationally acclaimed Italian tenor, singer, and songwriter. Blind since a young age due to a football accident, Bocelli overcame his disability to become one of the most beloved and successful classical crossover artists in the world.
Bocelli’s career gained widespread attention in 1994 when he performed “Con te partirò” (later released in English as “Time to Say Goodbye”) with Sarah Brightman. The duet became a massive international hit and introduced Bocelli to a global audience.
Known for his expressive and powerful voice, Andrea Bocelli has become a prominent figure in classical and popular music. His repertoire includes classical arias, operatic pieces, and crossover hits that span various genres. Bocelli has collaborated with numerous artists, both within and outside the classical music realm.
Some of Bocelli’s most popular songs include “Con te partirò,” “The Prayer” (with Celine Dion), “Time to Say Goodbye,” and “Por ti volaré.” His albums have achieved chart success worldwide, and he has received multiple awards for his contributions to music.
In addition to his solo career, Andrea Bocelli has performed in renowned opera houses and concert halls around the world. His classical interpretations, combined with his ability to engage with a broad audience, have made him a global ambassador for classical music.
Beyond his musical achievements, Andrea Bocelli is known for his philanthropy. He established the Andrea Bocelli Foundation to support educational and humanitarian projects around the world.
Andrea Bocelli’s enduring popularity, remarkable vocal talent, and ability to connect with audiences across genres have solidified his status as one of the most beloved and successful singers of our time.
8. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price, born on February 10, 1927, in Laurel, Mississippi, is an iconic American soprano celebrated for her extraordinary vocal talent and trailblazing contributions to the world of opera. Price emerged as one of the leading operatic sopranos of the 20th century, breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape.
Price’s powerful and velvety soprano voice, combined with her commanding stage presence, made her a natural fit for both the lyric and dramatic repertoire. She rose to international prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, captivating audiences with her performances of Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart, among other composers.
One of Leontyne Price’s most significant achievements was her portrayal of the title role in Giuseppe Verdi’s “Aida.” Her interpretation of Aida became legendary, and she made history as the first African American soprano to sing the role at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1961.
Price’s illustrious career included collaborations with renowned conductors and opera houses worldwide. Her interpretations of heroines like Tosca, Cio-Cio-San (Madama Butterfly), and Leonora (Il Trovatore) showcased her vocal versatility and dramatic depth.
Beyond her contributions to opera, Leontyne Price became a cultural ambassador and a symbol of inspiration for aspiring Black musicians. Her achievements were recognized with numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Leontyne Price’s retirement from the operatic stage in 1985 marked the end of an era, but her legacy endures. Her recordings and performances continue to inspire generations of singers, and she remains a revered figure in the annals of classical music history.
9. Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Dmitri Hvorostovsky (1962–2017) was a renowned Russian operatic baritone, celebrated for his powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and nuanced interpretations. Born on October 16, 1962, in Krasnoyarsk, Soviet Union, Hvorostovsky became one of the leading baritones of his generation.
Hvorostovsky’s early studies in music and voice led to his participation in various vocal competitions, where he gained recognition for his exceptional talent. His international breakthrough occurred in 1989 when he won the Cardiff Singer of the World competition.
Known for his versatility, Hvorostovsky excelled in a wide range of operatic roles, particularly those in the Russian and Italian repertoires. His interpretations of characters in works by Tchaikovsky, Verdi, and other composers were highly acclaimed.
Throughout his career, Hvorostovsky performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House, and La Scala. He collaborated with leading conductors and orchestras, earning praise for his vocal technique and emotional depth.
In addition to his success in opera, Hvorostovsky explored crossover projects, including recordings of Russian folk songs and popular music. His discography includes a variety of albums showcasing his rich baritone voice.
In 2015, Dmitri Hvorostovsky publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with brain cancer. Despite facing health challenges, he continued to perform and inspire audiences. Hvorostovsky’s final public performance took place at the Metropolitan Opera in 2017.
Dmitri Hvorostovsky passed away on November 22, 2017, at the age of 55. His legacy lives on through his recorded performances and the impact he made on the world of opera. Hvorostovsky is remembered not only for his vocal brilliance but also for his charismatic stage presence and contributions to the art of classical singing.
10. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, born on February 1, 1922, in Pesaro, Italy, was a legendary Italian soprano celebrated for her rich and emotionally resonant voice. Tebaldi’s contributions to the world of opera during the mid-20th century solidified her status as one of the greatest sopranos of her generation.
Known for her exceptional vocal beauty, Tebaldi possessed a warm, lyrical voice with a remarkable range and a distinctive timbre. Her interpretations of roles in the Italian and French operatic repertoire, particularly those by Giacomo Puccini and Giuseppe Verdi, garnered universal acclaim.
Tebaldi made her operatic debut in 1944 and rose to international prominence in the 1950s. Her breakthrough at La Scala in Milan, performing the role of Desdemona in Verdi’s “Otello,” established her as a leading soprano. Her collaboration with conductor Arturo Toscanini further enhanced her reputation.
One of Tebaldi’s most celebrated roles was Mimi in Puccini’s “La Bohème,” a character she portrayed with both vocal grace and emotional depth. Her interpretation of Puccini’s heroines, including Tosca and Madama Butterfly, showcased her versatility and dramatic prowess.
While often compared to her contemporary Maria Callas, Tebaldi’s approach to singing emphasized lyricism and a more traditional style. Her performances at major opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, were met with adulation.
Renata Tebaldi’s impact on opera extended beyond the stage; she became a beloved figure and cultural ambassador for the art form. Her career spanned several decades, and her recordings remain cherished for their artistry and vocal brilliance. Renata Tebaldi passed away on December 19, 2004, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire opera lovers around the world.
11. José Carreras
José Carreras, born on December 5, 1946, in Barcelona, Spain, is a renowned Spanish operatic tenor. A member of the famous trio “The Three Tenors” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo, Carreras has enjoyed a successful and illustrious career.
Carreras’s vocal talent became evident at an early age, and he made his professional debut at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona at the age of eight. His international breakthrough occurred in 1970 when he performed at the New York Metropolitan Opera in “La Traviata.”
Known for his lyric and dramatic roles, Carreras has excelled in a broad range of operas, including works by Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His roles in operas such as “La Bohème,” “Tosca,” and “Carmen” have earned him critical acclaim.
In 1987, Carreras joined forces with Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo to form “The Three Tenors.” Their collaboration became widely popular, leading to numerous concerts and recordings. The trio’s performance before the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Rome, conducted by Zubin Mehta, became one of the best-selling classical albums of all time.
Beyond opera, Carreras has explored crossover projects, including recordings of Spanish and Neapolitan songs. His discography showcases a diverse range of musical genres, highlighting his versatility as a singer.
In 1987, Carreras faced a personal and professional challenge when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Following successful treatment, he returned to the stage and continued his career with renewed vigor. Carreras’s triumph over illness further endeared him to audiences worldwide.
José Carreras received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to classical music, including the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. His philanthropic efforts include founding the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation, dedicated to supporting leukemia research.
Carreras officially retired from opera in 2018 but remains active in the music world. His legacy as a versatile and passionate tenor, both on the opera stage and in crossover endeavors, has left an indelible mark on the history of classical music.
12. Jessye Norman
Jessye Norman, born on September 15, 1945, in Augusta, Georgia, was an American operatic soprano and one of the most acclaimed and distinctive voices of her generation. Renowned for her powerful and dramatic voice, Norman left an indelible mark on the world of classical music.
Norman’s journey to international stardom began with her debut in Wagner’s “Tannhäuser” at the Deutsche Oper Berlin in 1969. Her exceptional vocal range and ability to effortlessly transition between different styles and genres set her apart. Known for her commanding stage presence and regal demeanor, Norman became a sought-after artist for leading opera houses and concert halls worldwide.
Throughout her illustrious career, Jessye Norman collaborated with renowned conductors and composers, interpreting a diverse repertoire that ranged from Wagner and Strauss to Mahler and Gershwin. She received acclaim for her portrayals of iconic opera roles, as well as her interpretations of lieder, spirituals, and American popular songs.
Norman’s achievements include multiple Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts, and the Kennedy Center Honor. Her powerful rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the 1993 Presidential Inauguration of Bill Clinton is particularly remembered for its emotional impact.
Beyond her contributions to classical music, Jessye Norman was known for her philanthropy and commitment to education. She established the Jessye Norman School of the Arts in her hometown of Augusta, providing arts education to young talents.
Jessye Norman passed away on September 30, 2019, but her legacy lives on through recordings, videos, and the enduring impact she made on the world of opera and classical music. Her remarkable voice and contributions to the arts continue to inspire generations of musicians and audiences.
13. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli (1921–2003) was an Italian operatic tenor celebrated for his powerful voice, dramatic intensity, and charismatic stage presence. Born on April 8, 1921, in Ancona, Italy, Corelli rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the leading tenors of his era.
Corelli’s vocal range and distinctive timbre set him apart as a spinto tenor, excelling in roles that required both lyricism and strength. His repertoire encompassed a wide range of operas, with notable performances in works by Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and others.
One of Corelli’s signature roles was Radamès in Verdi’s “Aida.” His powerful voice and commanding stage presence made him particularly well-suited for heroic and dramatic roles. Corelli was known for his unwavering top notes, ringing high Cs, and seamless legato.
In addition to his vocal prowess, Corelli’s matinee idol looks and magnetic stage charisma contributed to his popularity. His collaborations with renowned sopranos, including Birgit Nilsson and Renata Tebaldi, were highly acclaimed.
Corelli performed on major international stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. His interpretations of roles in operas like “Tosca,” “Turandot,” and “Norma” earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
While Corelli focused primarily on opera, he occasionally ventured into popular music, showcasing his versatility. His recordings, capturing the brilliance of his voice, continue to be treasured by opera enthusiasts.
Franco Corelli retired from the opera stage in the early 1970s but remained active as a teacher and mentor to young singers. He passed away on October 29, 2003, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest dramatic tenors of the 20th century.
14. Marilyn Horne
Marilyn Horne, born on January 16, 1934, in Bradford, Pennsylvania, is an American mezzo-soprano renowned for her exceptional vocal talent, versatility, and contributions to the world of opera. With a career spanning several decades, Horne established herself as one of the leading mezzo-sopranos of the 20th century.
Known for her powerful and agile voice, Marilyn Horne excelled in a wide range of operatic repertoire, from Baroque and bel canto to contemporary works. She made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1970, and her performances in roles such as Rossini’s “Tancredi” and Handel’s “Rinaldo” showcased her technical prowess and dramatic depth.
Horne’s contributions to the revival of the bel canto repertoire were particularly noteworthy. Her interpretations of roles in operas by Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti played a crucial role in rekindling interest in these works during the mid-20th century.
In addition to her operatic achievements, Marilyn Horne has been recognized for her contributions to the concert and recital repertoire. She collaborated with leading conductors and performed with major orchestras around the world, earning acclaim for her interpretations of works by composers such as Mahler, Brahms, and Berlioz.
Beyond her singing career, Horne has been an advocate for young singers and served as a mentor. She founded the Marilyn Horne Foundation, dedicated to supporting and nurturing young vocal talent.
Marilyn Horne’s legacy extends beyond the stage; her recordings, masterclasses, and advocacy work have left an enduring impact on the world of opera. Her exceptional artistry, dedication to her craft, and commitment to the next generation of musicians make her a revered figure in the history of classical music.
15. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling (1911–1960) was a Swedish tenor widely regarded as one of the greatest operatic voices of the 20th century. Born on February 5, 1911, in Borlänge, Sweden, Björling came from a family of singers, and his extraordinary talent became apparent at a young age.
Known for his warm and expressive lyric tenor voice, Björling’s career spanned from the 1930s to the early 1960s. His vocal prowess, technical precision, and emotional depth made him a sought-after artist in the opera world.
Björling’s repertoire included a wide range of roles, with a particular emphasis on Italian and French operas. He excelled in the works of composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Bizet. His performances in operas like “La Bohème,” “Rigoletto,” and “Carmen” garnered critical acclaim.
In addition to his success in the opera house, Björling achieved popularity in the concert hall, performing recitals and collaborating with orchestras. His renditions of arias, art songs, and folk songs showcased his versatility.
One of Björling’s most celebrated roles was as Rodolfo in Puccini’s “La Bohème.” His interpretation of this character became iconic, and his recordings of arias from this opera, including “Che gelida manina,” are considered definitive.
Jussi Björling performed on major international stages, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. His collaborations with renowned conductors and singers further solidified his status as a preeminent tenor.
Björling’s career was tragically cut short when he passed away on September 9, 1960, at the age of 49. Despite his relatively short life, his recordings continue to be cherished, and he is remembered as one of the most exceptional tenors in the history of opera.
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.
