Opera singers, the maestros of the classical vocal world, are trained vocalists with a rare ability to convey emotions and stories through the powerful and versatile medium of opera. With roots dating back to the late 16th century, opera is a unique art form that combines music, drama, and theatrical elements, and it demands a specialized skill set from its performers.
Opera singers undergo rigorous training to develop their vocal technique, which involves mastering a wide vocal range, achieving perfect intonation, and mastering the art of projection. They are often fluent in multiple languages to convey the nuances of the libretto, and their ability to emote and express complex emotions is unparalleled.
The opera stage becomes a canvas for their artistic expression, where they bring characters to life through arias, duets, and ensemble pieces. Whether portraying tragic heroines or comedic buffoons, opera singers use their voices to create a profound emotional impact on the audience.
Beyond vocal prowess, opera singers must possess stage presence and the ability to act convincingly. Their performances are often accompanied by orchestras, requiring an understanding of musical collaboration and synchronization.
Opera singers are the embodiment of a centuries-old tradition, preserving the art of storytelling through music in its purest and most dramatic form. Their contributions to the world of classical music ensure the endurance of opera as a vibrant and emotive art form.
1. Joan Sutherland
Dame Joan Sutherland, born on November 7, 1926, in Sydney, Australia, was a legendary operatic soprano who left an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Renowned for her remarkable vocal agility, power, and versatility, Sutherland is often hailed as one of the greatest dramatic coloratura sopranos of the 20th century.
Sutherland’s career reached its zenith in the bel canto repertoire, particularly the works of composers such as Gaetano Donizetti, Vincenzo Bellini, and Giacomo Meyerbeer. Her ability to navigate the demanding coloratura passages, coupled with her crystalline high notes, set her apart in roles like Lucia in “Lucia di Lammermoor” and the title role in “Norma.”
Notably, Sutherland played a pivotal role in popularizing bel canto operas, contributing to a revival of interest in these works. Her voice, described as a “voice of the century,” had a rare combination of strength and purity.
Dame Joan Sutherland’s illustrious career included performances at renowned opera houses worldwide, and her collaborations with conductor Richard Bonynge, whom she later married, were particularly celebrated. Her contribution to opera was recognized with numerous awards, including the Order of Merit and the Order of Australia.
Beyond her vocal prowess, Joan Sutherland’s legacy includes her influence as a mentor, shaping the careers of aspiring opera singers. Her impact on the world of opera endures as a testament to her extraordinary talent, dedication to the art form, and her role in preserving and promoting the bel canto repertoire. Joan Sutherland passed away on October 10, 2010, but her contributions to opera continue to inspire and resonate with fans and aspiring artists alike.
2. Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli, born on September 22, 1958, in Lajatico, Tuscany, Italy, is a world-renowned tenor and crossover classical artist. Blind since the age of 12 due to a football accident, Bocelli’s extraordinary voice and emotive performances have made him one of the most beloved and successful vocalists of his generation.
Bocelli’s repertoire spans classical, pop, and opera, showcasing his versatility as a singer. His breakthrough came in the early 1990s with the release of the album “Romanza,” featuring the iconic “Con te partirò (Time to Say Goodbye).” Collaborations with artists like Sarah Brightman and Celine Dion further propelled him to international fame.
Known for his impeccable phrasing and emotional delivery, Bocelli has recorded numerous albums, exploring a diverse range of musical genres. His renditions of classical masterpieces, opera arias, and popular songs have garnered him a vast and devoted fanbase.
Andrea Bocelli’s impact extends beyond the music world; he is recognized for his philanthropic efforts and contributions to charitable causes. His collaborations with various artists, including pop and rock musicians, highlight his ability to transcend genre boundaries.
As a living legend, Andrea Bocelli’s influence on the classical and crossover music landscape is immeasurable. His enduring popularity, characterized by sold-out concerts and millions of record sales, cements his status as one of the most celebrated and cherished voices in contemporary classical music.
3. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price is an American operatic soprano, widely regarded as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century. Born on February 10, 1927, in Laurel, Mississippi, Price achieved international acclaim for her powerful and rich voice, exceptional vocal range, and dramatic stage presence.
Price made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1961, portraying the role of Leonora in Giuseppe Verdi’s “Il Trovatore.” Her success in this role marked the beginning of a remarkable career at the Met. Price went on to perform numerous leading roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Leontyne Price’s voice was known for its warmth, clarity, and versatility. Her interpretations of Verdi’s heroines, including Aida, Leonora, and Desdemona, were particularly celebrated. Price’s performances were not only musically outstanding but also marked by her dramatic and expressive acting.
Throughout her career, Price received numerous accolades and awards, including 19 Grammy Awards. In 1965, she became the first African American to perform in a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera. Price’s contributions to opera and her success as an African American woman in a historically exclusive field paved the way for future generations of diverse opera performers.
Leontyne Price retired from the opera stage in 1985 but continued to make occasional concert appearances. Her impact on the world of opera and classical music is profound, and she remains an inspiration for aspiring singers and a symbol of excellence in the arts. Leontyne Price’s legacy extends beyond her vocal achievements to her role as a trailblazer and cultural icon.
4. Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Dmitri Hvorostovsky was a Russian operatic baritone, born on October 16, 1962, in Krasnoyarsk, Soviet Union (now Russia). He was renowned for his powerful and expressive voice, as well as his compelling stage presence. Hvorostovsky was considered one of the leading baritones of his generation and made significant contributions to the world of classical music.
Hvorostovsky’s international breakthrough came in 1989 when he won the Cardiff Singer of the World competition. This victory launched his career on the global stage, leading to engagements with major opera houses and orchestras around the world.
Known for his versatile repertoire, Hvorostovsky excelled in roles from the Russian opera tradition, including works by Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff, as well as in the Italian and French operatic repertoires. He was particularly celebrated for his interpretations of Verdi’s baritone roles.
In addition to his operatic achievements, Hvorostovsky was acclaimed for his concert and recital performances. He frequently collaborated with leading orchestras and conductors and appeared in prestigious venues and festivals.
Dmitri Hvorostovsky’s career was marked by numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and he received the title of People’s Artist of Russia. His charismatic stage presence, combined with a distinctive voice capable of both power and nuance, endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Tragically, Dmitri Hvorostovsky battled brain cancer in the later years of his career. He passed away on November 22, 2017, at the age of 55. Despite his untimely death, Hvorostovsky’s contributions to the world of opera continue to be remembered, and he is regarded as one of the most remarkable baritones in the history of classical music.
5. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, born on February 1, 1922, in Pesaro, Italy, was a distinguished Italian operatic soprano celebrated for her warm, lyrical voice and profound interpretations of leading roles in the operatic repertoire. Tebaldi’s career spanned from the 1940s to the 1970s, and she became one of the leading sopranos of her time.
Renowned for her exceptional technique and ability to convey deep emotional nuances in her performances, Tebaldi excelled in a wide range of roles, particularly those in the works of Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. Her voice, characterized by its richness and purity, made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
Tebaldi’s international acclaim was solidified with performances at renowned opera houses, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. Her collaborations with conductors like Arturo Toscanini and Herbert von Karajan added to her artistic legacy.
Notable roles in her repertoire include Desdemona in Verdi’s “Otello” and Mimi in Puccini’s “La Bohème.” Tebaldi’s vocal artistry, coupled with her magnetic stage presence, left an enduring impact on the world of opera.
Renata Tebaldi’s contributions to the art form earned her accolades and honors, and she remains a revered figure in the history of classical music. Her legacy lives on through recordings and the memories of those who were fortunate enough to witness her performances during the height of her illustrious career. Renata Tebaldi passed away on December 19, 2004, but her influence as one of the great sopranos of the 20th century continues to resonate within the world of opera.
6. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was an Italian operatic tenor, born on October 12, 1935, in Modena, Italy. Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and celebrated tenors in the history of opera, Pavarotti’s powerful and emotive voice made him a global icon and a household name.
Pavarotti’s operatic career began in the early 1960s, and he quickly gained international recognition for his exceptional vocal talent. He became particularly associated with the bel canto repertoire, excelling in the works of composers such as Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Gaetano Donizetti.
One of Pavarotti’s most iconic performances was as Rodolfo in Puccini’s “La Bohème” at the Royal Opera House in London in 1963. Throughout his career, he performed in leading roles at major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and La Scala in Milan.
Pavarotti’s voice was characterized by its warmth, agility, and clarity, making him well-suited for both dramatic and lyric roles. He was known for his high C, an impressive and powerful top note that became a trademark of his performances.
Beyond the opera stage, Luciano Pavarotti achieved unprecedented crossover success. He collaborated with pop and rock artists, recorded popular songs, and participated in the acclaimed trio “The Three Tenors” with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras, which gained global popularity.
Luciano Pavarotti’s contribution to classical music extends beyond his vocal prowess. His charismatic stage presence, ability to connect with audiences, and efforts to bring opera to a wider audience through various media endeared him to fans around the world.
Pavarotti passed away on September 6, 2007, at the age of 71. His legacy endures, and he is remembered not only as a remarkable tenor but also as a cultural ambassador who played a significant role in popularizing opera on a global scale.
7. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, born on December 2, 1923, in New York City, and raised in Greece, was one of the most renowned and influential operatic sopranos of the 20th century. Often referred to as “La Divina,” Callas possessed a voice of extraordinary range and dramatic intensity, coupled with a compelling stage presence.
Callas rose to international prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, captivating audiences with her interpretations of the great heroines in the operas of Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. Her ability to convey both the emotional and vocal complexities of characters set her apart as a true artist.
Known for her exceptional vocal technique, Callas could effortlessly transition between registers and convey a wide range of emotions through her singing. Her interpretations were marked by a deep understanding of the characters she portrayed, bringing a level of theatricality to her performances that was unprecedented.
Callas’s collaborations with conductors like Tullio Serafin and her tumultuous personal life added to the mystique surrounding her. Despite facing vocal challenges later in her career, her earlier recordings and live performances remain iconic, capturing the essence of her artistry.
Maria Callas’s influence extends beyond her vocal prowess; she played a key role in reviving interest in bel canto operas, and her impact on the world of opera continues to be felt today. Despite her untimely death on September 16, 1977, Maria Callas’s legacy endures as a symbol of artistic brilliance and a standard against which other sopranos are often measured.
8. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is a world-renowned Spanish opera singer, conductor, and arts administrator. Born on January 21, 1941, in Madrid, Spain, Domingo has had an illustrious career spanning several decades and is considered one of the most versatile and accomplished tenors in the history of opera.
Domingo’s voice is characterized by its warmth, power, and flexibility, allowing him to excel in a wide range of operatic roles. He has performed lead roles in the works of composers such as Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Richard Wagner, among others. His ability to sing both lyric and dramatic roles has contributed to his reputation as a versatile and dynamic performer.
In addition to his singing career, Plácido Domingo is a highly regarded conductor and has held leadership positions with various opera companies and orchestras. He has conducted numerous opera productions and symphonic concerts, showcasing his musical expertise beyond the realm of singing.
Domingo is known for his charismatic stage presence and has become a cultural ambassador for opera, reaching audiences around the world. He is a key figure in the “Three Tenors,” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras, a trio that achieved immense popularity with their collaborative performances.
Throughout his career, Plácido Domingo has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He has also been involved in humanitarian efforts, supporting various charitable causes.
In recent years, Domingo has faced controversy due to allegations of inappropriate behavior, which he has apologized for, and he stepped down from leadership roles at several opera companies. Despite the controversies, his impact on the world of opera and classical music is undeniably significant, and his contributions continue to be recognized and celebrated by many.
9. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, born on February 14, 1959, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, is an acclaimed American soprano celebrated for her exquisite voice, versatile repertoire, and remarkable stage presence. Known for her lyric soprano voice, Fleming has captivated audiences around the world with her performances in a wide range of musical genres.
Fleming’s career has spanned opera, classical music, and crossover projects. Her interpretations of roles in works by composers such as Richard Strauss, Giacomo Puccini, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart have earned her acclaim at renowned opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Royal Opera House in London.
Beyond opera, Renée Fleming has explored crossover collaborations, delving into jazz, Broadway, and popular music. Her crossover album “Dark Hope” and collaborations with artists like Yo-Yo Ma and jazz pianist Fred Hersch showcase her versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories.
Fleming’s vocal artistry is characterized by its warmth, clarity, and expressive range. Her performances convey a deep understanding of the emotional nuances of the music she interprets. Her stage presence, coupled with her commitment to character portrayal, makes her a captivating performer.
Throughout her illustrious career, Renée Fleming has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards. In addition to her contributions to the world of music, she has served as an advocate for the arts and music education.
Renée Fleming’s impact on the classical and crossover music landscape is profound, and her enduring popularity has solidified her status as one of the preeminent sopranos of her generation. As a cultural ambassador and a champion of musical diversity, she continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike.
10. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso was an Italian operatic tenor born on February 25, 1873, in Naples, Italy. Widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors in the history of opera, Caruso’s powerful voice and emotive performances earned him legendary status.
Caruso began his operatic career in Italy in the late 19th century and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional vocal talents. His international breakthrough came in 1902 when he made his debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, portraying the role of the Duke of Mantua in Verdi’s “Rigoletto.” His performances at the Met solidified his reputation as a preeminent tenor.
Known for his beautiful lyric voice, brilliant high notes, and extraordinary range, Caruso excelled in a wide repertoire that included works by Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Gaetano Donizetti. He was especially acclaimed for his interpretations of leading roles in operas such as “La Bohème,” “Tosca,” and “Carmen.”
Enrico Caruso’s recordings played a significant role in popularizing opera beyond the confines of the opera house. His recordings, made between 1902 and 1920, remain highly regarded for their artistic quality and historical importance. Caruso’s ability to convey emotion through his voice and his masterful phrasing endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Tragically, Enrico Caruso’s career was cut short when he died at the age of 48 on August 2, 1921, in Naples, Italy, from complications related to pleurisy. Despite his relatively brief career, Caruso’s impact on the world of opera was profound, and his recordings continue to be studied and admired by opera enthusiasts and scholars alike.
11. Jose Carreras
Jose Carreras, born on December 5, 1946, in Barcelona, Spain, is a renowned Spanish tenor who rose to international fame as one of the legendary “Three Tenors” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo. Carreras’s career is marked by his exceptional vocal talent, versatility, and a triumphant comeback from a life-threatening illness.
Carreras began his operatic career in the 1960s, gaining recognition for his performances in works by Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. His lyric tenor voice and passionate interpretations made him a sought-after artist on the world’s most prestigious opera stages.
In the 1980s, the collaboration of Carreras with Pavarotti and Domingo, known as the “Three Tenors,” became a global sensation. Their concerts, particularly during major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, brought classical music to a broader audience and achieved unprecedented success.
In 1987, Carreras faced a significant personal challenge when he was diagnosed with leukemia. Following a successful battle against the disease, he returned to the stage, showcasing his resilience and determination. His triumphant comeback performances and recordings solidified his status as a beloved and inspirational figure.
Jose Carreras’s repertoire extends beyond opera, including collaborations with pop and crossover artists. His contributions to charitable causes, particularly in leukemia research, further demonstrate his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the stage.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jose Carreras has received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts. His legacy as a versatile and enduring tenor, combined with his personal journey of triumph over adversity, has left an indelible mark on the world of classical and popular music.
12. Jessye Norman
Jessye Norman was an American operatic soprano, born on September 15, 1945, in Augusta, Georgia. Renowned for her powerful voice, dramatic stage presence, and versatile repertoire, Norman was considered one of the leading opera singers of her generation.
Norman’s career took off in the 1960s, and she gained international acclaim for her performances in both opera and classical music. Her rich and commanding voice allowed her to excel in a broad range of roles, from dramatic soprano roles in works by Wagner and Strauss to performances of lieder and spirituals.
One of Jessye Norman’s career milestones was her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1983, where she portrayed the title role in Richard Strauss’s “Ariadne auf Naxos.” She went on to perform leading roles in operas by composers such as Wagner, Verdi, and Mozart at major opera houses around the world.
In addition to her operatic achievements, Norman was known for her concert and recital performances. She collaborated with renowned conductors and orchestras and showcased her ability to interpret a wide range of musical genres.
Throughout her career, Jessye Norman received numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts, and the Kennedy Center Honor. She was admired not only for her vocal prowess but also for her commitment to promoting diversity in the world of classical music.
Jessye Norman passed away on September 30, 2019, at the age of 74. Her legacy endures, and she is remembered as a trailblazer, breaking barriers in the world of opera and classical music and leaving an indelible mark on the art form.
13. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, born on April 8, 1921, in Ancona, Italy, was a legendary Italian operatic tenor whose powerful and dramatic voice made him one of the leading tenors of the 20th century. Known for his remarkable vocal range, passionate interpretations, and charismatic stage presence, Corelli left an indelible mark on the world of opera.
Corelli’s career took off in the 1950s, and he gained international acclaim for his performances in both Italian and French operas. His voice, characterized by its bright timbre, ringing top notes, and seamless legato, was particularly well-suited for the dramatic roles in works by Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini.
One of Corelli’s notable attributes was his ability to combine vocal prowess with intense acting, creating memorable character portrayals on stage. His collaborations with leading sopranos, including Maria Callas, resulted in some of the most iconic opera recordings.
While Corelli primarily focused on the standard Italian repertoire, he also ventured into French opera, gaining acclaim for his interpretations of roles like Don José in Georges Bizet’s “Carmen.” His international career took him to renowned opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and La Scala in Milan.
Franco Corelli’s vocal technique and stage charisma earned him a devoted fanbase, and he continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest tenors in the history of opera. His recordings and live performances remain cherished by opera enthusiasts, showcasing the enduring legacy of a tenor whose artistry left an indelible impact on the world of classical music. Franco Corelli passed away on October 29, 2003.
14. Marilyn Horne
Marilyn Horne is an American mezzo-soprano opera singer, born on January 16, 1934, in Bradford, Pennsylvania. Renowned for her exceptional vocal range, technical skill, and versatility, Horne is considered one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos in the history of opera.
Horne’s career began in the early 1950s, and she gained recognition for her performances in both operatic and concert settings. She excelled in a wide range of roles, from Baroque and classical operas to bel canto and contemporary works. Her extensive repertoire included collaborations with renowned composers and conductors.
One of Marilyn Horne’s most celebrated achievements was her mastery of the coloratura repertoire. Her agility and control in ornamentation and vocal acrobatics set her apart in roles by composers like Rossini, Handel, and Bellini. She was particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of Rossini’s operas, including the title role in “Tancredi” and the role of Rosina in “The Barber of Seville.”
In addition to her operatic career, Horne was known for her concert and recital performances, showcasing her versatility in interpreting art songs, lieder, and popular music. She collaborated with major orchestras and conductors, earning admiration for her expressive and technically accomplished singing.
Marilyn Horne received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including several Grammy Awards. Beyond her contributions to the world of opera, she played a significant role in mentoring and supporting young singers through teaching and educational initiatives.
Horne’s illustrious career continued for several decades, and she remains an influential figure in the world of classical music. Her legacy is not only marked by her extraordinary vocal talent but also by her dedication to the art form and her contributions to the development of young opera singers.
15. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, born on February 2, 1911, in Borlänge, Sweden, was a legendary Swedish tenor acclaimed for his exceptional vocal talent and profound interpretations of operatic roles. Regarded as one of the finest tenors of the 20th century, Björling’s voice was characterized by its warmth, lyricism, and technical brilliance.
Björling hailed from a family with a rich musical tradition, and he began his singing career as a boy soprano alongside his brothers. His professional operatic debut occurred at the Royal Swedish Opera in Stockholm when he was just 19 years old, marking the beginning of a remarkable career.
Renowned for his mastery of both Italian and French repertoires, Björling excelled in the works of Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, and Giacomo Meyerbeer. His ability to convey deep emotion through his singing, coupled with his impeccable vocal technique, made him a sought-after tenor on international stages.
Björling’s international career flourished with performances at leading opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and La Scala in Milan. His collaborations with celebrated sopranos, such as Renata Tebaldi, are celebrated for their artistic synergy.
Jussi Björling’s legacy is immortalized in a vast discography that includes opera recordings, lieder, and popular songs. His interpretation of arias like “Nessun Dorma” and “Che gelida manina” remains iconic.
Despite a life marked by health challenges and a tragic early death at the age of 49 in 1960, Jussi Björling’s impact on the world of opera endures. His recordings continue to inspire new generations of opera enthusiasts, and his name remains synonymous with extraordinary vocal artistry.
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.
