Opera singers are artists of the highest caliber, possessing exceptional vocal talent, dramatic prowess, and profound musicality. They specialize in performing the operatic repertoire, which encompasses a wide range of styles, languages, and characters, from the heroic tenors and noble sopranos of Wagner and Verdi to the comic baritones and coloratura sopranos of Mozart and Rossini.
Opera singers undergo rigorous training to develop their voices, mastering techniques such as breath control, vocal resonance, and dynamic range. They also study acting, stagecraft, and language diction to bring their characters to life on stage. With their powerful voices and commanding stage presence, opera singers captivate audiences with their emotional depth, expressiveness, and sheer vocal prowess.
Opera singers perform on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. They collaborate with leading conductors, directors, and musicians, bringing their interpretations of iconic roles to life in acclaimed productions that span centuries of musical history.
Opera singers inspire and move audiences with their extraordinary talent and passion for music, creating transcendent moments of beauty and emotion that linger in the memory long after the final curtain falls. They are true ambassadors of the operatic art form, preserving its rich tradition while pushing the boundaries of vocal artistry and expression.
1. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, born Maria Anna Cecilia Sofia Kalogeropoulos, was one of the most influential and celebrated opera singers of the 20th century. Born on December 2, 1923, in New York City to Greek immigrant parents, Callas rose to prominence as a soprano known for her exceptional vocal range, dramatic intensity, and unparalleled acting ability.
Callas made her professional debut in Italy in 1947 and quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice and compelling stage presence. She became renowned for her interpretations of the bel canto repertoire, particularly the works of composers such as Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini. Her performances were characterized by their emotional depth, technical virtuosity, and dramatic flair, earning her the nickname “La Divina.”
Throughout her career, Callas collaborated with some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses and conductors, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She starred in numerous acclaimed productions and recorded a vast repertoire of operatic works, leaving behind a rich legacy of recordings that continue to inspire and captivate audiences today.
In addition to her remarkable vocal talents, Callas was also known for her striking beauty, magnetic charisma, and tumultuous personal life, which often garnered as much attention as her artistry. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks throughout her career, including vocal difficulties and public scrutiny, Callas remained dedicated to her craft and continued to push the boundaries of operatic performance.
Maria Callas’ impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as she elevated the art form to new heights and inspired generations of singers and musicians. Her recordings and performances continue to be revered as masterpieces of the operatic repertoire, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
2. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, born on October 12, 1935, in Modena, Italy, was one of the most renowned and beloved operatic tenors of the 20th century. Widely acclaimed for his powerful voice, exceptional range, and remarkable vocal agility, Pavarotti captivated audiences around the world with his passionate performances and charismatic stage presence.
Pavarotti made his professional debut in 1961 and quickly rose to prominence as a leading figure in the world of opera. His rich, velvety voice and effortless high notes made him a natural for the bel canto repertoire, particularly the works of composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. He also excelled in the dramatic roles of Wagner and the lyricism of Mozart, showcasing his versatility and virtuosity as a singer.
Throughout his illustrious career, Pavarotti performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. He starred in numerous acclaimed productions and collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, earning him widespread acclaim and adoration from audiences and critics alike.
In addition to his operatic performances, Pavarotti became known for his charismatic personality and humanitarian efforts. He participated in numerous benefit concerts and charitable events, using his fame and influence to raise awareness and support for various causes, including humanitarian aid and medical research.
Pavarotti’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as he helped popularize the art form and introduce it to new audiences around the world. His recordings and performances continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of the operatic repertoire, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest tenors of all time.
3. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is an acclaimed American soprano renowned for her exceptional vocal talent, versatility, and profound artistry. Born on February 14, 1959, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Fleming has established herself as one of the most celebrated opera singers of her generation, earning accolades for her performances on the world’s most prestigious stages.
Fleming’s operatic repertoire is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of roles in operas by composers such as Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Strauss, and more. Her voice is known for its exquisite tone, remarkable control, and expressive depth, allowing her to bring a rich emotional nuance to each performance.
In addition to her operatic career, Renée Fleming has also achieved success as a recitalist, concert performer, and recording artist. She has collaborated with leading orchestras and conductors around the world, showcasing her versatility and mastery of a diverse range of musical styles.
Fleming’s talent extends beyond the opera stage, as she has also performed in Broadway productions, made guest appearances on television programs, and recorded crossover albums exploring genres such as jazz, pop, and contemporary music. Her ability to effortlessly transition between different musical styles has earned her a wide and devoted fan base.
Throughout her illustrious career, Renée Fleming has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts, and the Fulbright Lifetime Achievement Medal. She is also a sought-after mentor and advocate for emerging artists, working to support and promote the next generation of opera singers.
Renée Fleming’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as she continues to inspire audiences with her extraordinary talent, passion, and dedication to her craft. Her performances are marked by their beauty, sensitivity, and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impression on all who have the privilege of experiencing her artistry.
4. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo, born on January 21, 1941, in Madrid, Spain, is one of the most celebrated and versatile opera singers of all time. Renowned for his exceptional vocal talent, dramatic intensity, and remarkable longevity, Domingo has enjoyed a career spanning over six decades, during which he has excelled in a wide range of roles and genres.
Domingo made his professional debut in 1959 and quickly gained recognition for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and charismatic acting ability. He is known for his versatility, having performed a diverse repertoire that encompasses the works of composers from Mozart and Verdi to Wagner and Puccini. His ability to embody a wide range of characters and vocal styles has earned him acclaim in both lyric and dramatic roles.
Throughout his career, Domingo has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. He has collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of opera.
In addition to his operatic career, Domingo is also known for his work as a conductor, director, and administrator. He has served as the general director of the Los Angeles Opera and the Washington National Opera, and has conducted orchestras and opera companies around the world.
Domingo’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as he has helped popularize the art form and introduce it to new audiences around the world. His recordings and performances continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of the operatic repertoire, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.
5. Joan Sutherland
Dame Joan Sutherland, born on November 7, 1926, in Sydney, Australia, was one of the most renowned operatic sopranos of the 20th century. With her remarkable vocal range, agility, and power, Sutherland earned acclaim for her performances in the bel canto repertoire, particularly the works of composers such as Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini.
Sutherland rose to international prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, captivating audiences and critics alike with her stunning voice and virtuosic technique. Known for her extraordinary vocal flexibility and ability to navigate the demanding coloratura passages of bel canto operas with ease, she became known as “La Stupenda” (The Stunning One) and “The Voice of the Century.”
Throughout her illustrious career, Joan Sutherland performed at the world’s leading opera houses, including the Royal Opera House in London, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and La Scala in Milan. She starred in iconic roles such as Lucia in “Lucia di Lammermoor,” Norma in “Norma,” and Violetta in “La Traviata,” earning accolades for her electrifying performances and vocal artistry.
Sutherland’s voice was characterized by its purity, clarity, and flexibility, as well as its ability to soar effortlessly through the most challenging coloratura passages. Her flawless technique and remarkable control allowed her to convey a wide range of emotions, from joy and exuberance to heart-wrenching sadness, captivating audiences with every note.
In addition to her acclaimed operatic career, Joan Sutherland was also a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a rich legacy of recordings that continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts around the world. She was honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including the Order of Merit from Queen Elizabeth II and the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
Joan Sutherland’s impact on the world of opera was immense, as she helped to revive and popularize the bel canto repertoire, bringing attention to the works of composers that had long been neglected. Her extraordinary talent, unparalleled artistry, and lasting contributions to the world of opera ensure that she will always be remembered as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
6. José Carreras
José Carreras, born on December 5, 1946, in Barcelona, Spain, is a renowned operatic tenor known for his exquisite voice, passionate performances, and remarkable resilience. Carreras rose to international prominence as one of the acclaimed “Three Tenors,” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo, but his solo career had already established him as one of the leading tenors of his generation.
Carreras made his professional debut at the age of 11 and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional vocal talent and dramatic versatility. He excelled in a wide range of roles, from the bel canto operas of Donizetti and Bellini to the dramatic works of Verdi and Puccini. His powerful voice, expressive phrasing, and emotional depth captivated audiences around the world.
Throughout his illustrious career, Carreras performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. He collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of opera.
In addition to his operatic performances, Carreras is also known for his humanitarian work. In 1987, he established the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation, following his own successful battle with the disease. The foundation has since raised millions of dollars for leukemia research and patient support, earning Carreras widespread acclaim and admiration for his commitment to the cause.
José Carreras’ impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as he has helped popularize the art form and introduce it to new audiences around the world. His recordings and performances continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of the operatic repertoire, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest tenors of all time.
7. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé, born on April 12, 1933, in Barcelona, Spain, was one of the most renowned and beloved operatic sopranos of the 20th century. With her extraordinary vocal range, impeccable technique, and profound artistry, Caballé captivated audiences around the world and earned acclaim for her performances in a wide range of operatic roles.
Caballé’s career spanned over five decades, during which she performed at the world’s leading opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. She was particularly celebrated for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Bellini, Donizetti, and Puccini, as well as Spanish zarzuela.
Montserrat Caballé’s voice was characterized by its richness, warmth, and flexibility, as well as its ability to convey a wide range of emotions with subtlety and depth. She was equally adept at navigating the dramatic demands of roles such as Norma and Tosca as she was at delivering the lyrical beauty of arias by Mozart and Strauss.
In addition to her operatic career, Caballé was also a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a vast discography that includes acclaimed recordings of operas, recitals, and concert performances. Her recordings continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts and music lovers around the world.
Throughout her career, Caballé received numerous awards and honors, including the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts and the Kennedy Center Honor. She was also appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of Isabella the Catholic by the Spanish government in recognition of her contributions to the arts.
Montserrat Caballé’s impact on the world of opera was immense, as she helped to define and elevate the art form with her unparalleled talent, artistry, and dedication to her craft. Her performances continue to inspire and move audiences, ensuring that she will always be remembered as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
8. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, born on May 17, 1918, in Karup, Sweden, was one of the most celebrated and formidable dramatic sopranos of the 20th century. Renowned for her powerful voice, impeccable technique, and commanding stage presence, Nilsson was hailed as the leading Wagnerian soprano of her generation.
Nilsson made her operatic debut in 1946 and quickly gained recognition for her exceptional vocal talents and dramatic abilities. She became known for her fearless approach to the most demanding roles in the dramatic soprano repertoire, particularly the works of Richard Wagner. Her performances as Brünnhilde in Wagner’s “Ring Cycle” and Isolde in “Tristan und Isolde” are considered legendary, showcasing her extraordinary vocal range, stamina, and artistry.
Throughout her illustrious career, Nilsson performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Bayreuth Festival in Germany. She collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned widespread acclaim and adoration from audiences and critics alike.
In addition to her mastery of Wagnerian repertoire, Nilsson also excelled in the works of Verdi, Strauss, and Puccini, showcasing her versatility as a singer and actress. Her powerful voice, crystalline high notes, and expressive interpretation made her a favorite among opera lovers around the world.
Birgit Nilsson’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as she helped define and shape the Wagnerian soprano repertoire for generations to come. Her recordings and performances continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of the operatic repertoire, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
9. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, born on April 8, 1921, in Ancona, Italy, was one of the most celebrated operatic tenors of the 20th century. With his powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and passionate interpretations, Corelli captivated audiences around the world and earned acclaim for his performances in a wide range of operatic roles.
Corelli’s career spanned over three decades, during which he performed at the world’s leading opera houses, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. He was particularly renowned for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and Giordano.
Franco Corelli’s voice was characterized by its brilliance, richness, and ringing top notes, as well as its ability to convey a wide range of emotions with intensity and depth. He was equally adept at delivering the heroic demands of roles such as Radamès in “Aida” and Calaf in “Turandot” as he was at expressing the lyrical beauty of arias by Donizetti and Bellini.
In addition to his operatic career, Corelli was also a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a legacy of acclaimed recordings that showcase his vocal prowess and artistry. His recordings continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts and music lovers around the world.
Throughout his career, Corelli received numerous awards and honors, including the Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Soloist Performance. He was also appointed a Cavaliere di Gran Croce by the Italian government in recognition of his contributions to the arts.
Franco Corelli’s impact on the world of opera was immense, as he helped to define and elevate the art form with his unparalleled talent, artistry, and dedication to his craft. His performances continue to inspire and move audiences, ensuring that he will always be remembered as one of the greatest tenors of all time.
10. Mirella Freni
Mirella Freni, born on February 27, 1935, in Modena, Italy, was an internationally acclaimed operatic soprano known for her exceptional vocal talent, profound artistry, and versatility. Regarded as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century, Freni captivated audiences and critics alike with her exquisite voice, heartfelt interpretations, and deeply expressive performances.
Freni’s career spanned over five decades, during which she performed at the world’s leading opera houses, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. She was particularly celebrated for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, and Tchaikovsky.
Mirella Freni’s voice was characterized by its warmth, purity, and flexibility, as well as its ability to convey a wide range of emotions with sensitivity and nuance. She was equally adept at delivering the dramatic demands of roles such as Mimi in “La Bohème” and Tosca in “Tosca” as she was at expressing the lyrical beauty of arias by Mozart and Strauss.
In addition to her operatic career, Freni was also a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a rich legacy of acclaimed recordings that showcase her vocal brilliance and artistry. Her recordings continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts and music lovers around the world.
Throughout her career, Mirella Freni received numerous awards and honors, including the Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Soloist Performance. She was also appointed a Cavaliere di Gran Croce by the Italian government in recognition of her contributions to the arts.
Mirella Freni’s impact on the world of opera was immense, as she helped to define and elevate the art form with her unparalleled talent, artistry, and dedication to her craft. Her performances continue to inspire and move audiences, ensuring that she will always be remembered as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
11. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price, born on February 10, 1927, in Laurel, Mississippi, is one of the most celebrated and influential operatic sopranos of the 20th century. Renowned for her exquisite voice, impeccable technique, and captivating stage presence, Price achieved international acclaim for her remarkable talent and artistry.
Price made her operatic debut in 1952 and quickly rose to prominence as one of the leading sopranos of her generation. She became known for her stunning vocal range, lush timbre, and effortless vocal control, earning praise for her interpretations of a wide range of roles, from the heroines of Verdi and Puccini to the lyricism of Mozart and Strauss.
Throughout her illustrious career, Price performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, and the Royal Opera House in London. She collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the world of opera.
In addition to her operatic performances, Price also made significant contributions to the world of concert music and recorded a vast repertoire of solo albums and recitals. Her recordings of opera arias, art songs, and spirituals continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of vocal artistry, showcasing her versatility and range as a singer.
Leontyne Price’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as she helped redefine and expand the possibilities of the operatic soprano repertoire. Her recordings and performances continue to inspire generations of singers and musicians, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
12. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, born on February 1, 1922, in Pesaro, Italy, was one of the most renowned and beloved operatic sopranos of the 20th century. Widely celebrated for her warm, velvety voice, exquisite phrasing, and deeply expressive interpretations, Tebaldi captivated audiences around the world with her remarkable talent and artistry.
Tebaldi made her operatic debut in 1944 and quickly gained recognition for her exceptional vocal abilities and dramatic versatility. She became known for her lush timbre, effortless high notes, and emotive singing style, earning praise for her interpretations of a wide range of roles, from the heroines of Verdi and Puccini to the lyricism of Mozart and Strauss.
Throughout her illustrious career, Tebaldi performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. She collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the world of opera.
In addition to her operatic performances, Tebaldi also made significant contributions to the world of concert music and recorded a vast repertoire of solo albums and recitals. Her recordings of opera arias, art songs, and sacred music continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of vocal artistry, showcasing her versatility and range as a singer.
Renata Tebaldi’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as she helped define and shape the soprano repertoire for generations to come. Her recordings and performances continue to inspire generations of singers and musicians, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
13. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, born on February 5, 1911, in Stora Tuna, Sweden, was one of the most celebrated operatic tenors of the 20th century. Renowned for his extraordinary vocal talent, impeccable technique, and heartfelt interpretations, Björling captivated audiences around the world and earned acclaim for his performances in a wide range of operatic roles.
Björling’s career spanned over three decades, during which he performed at the world’s leading opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and La Scala in Milan. He was particularly celebrated for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, and Mozart.
Jussi Björling’s voice was characterized by its richness, warmth, and power, as well as its ability to convey a wide range of emotions with nuance and depth. He was equally adept at delivering the dramatic demands of roles such as Radamès in “Aida” and Calaf in “Turandot” as he was at expressing the lyrical beauty of arias by Mozart and Donizetti.
In addition to his operatic career, Björling was also a prolific concert performer and recording artist, leaving behind a vast discography that includes acclaimed recordings of operas, recitals, and concert performances. His recordings continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts and music lovers around the world.
Throughout his career, Jussi Björling received numerous awards and honors, including the Swedish Royal Medal Litteris et Artibus and induction into the Gramophone Hall of Fame. He was also honored with a postage stamp by the Swedish postal service in recognition of his contributions to music.
Jussi Björling’s impact on the world of opera was immense, as he helped to define and elevate the art form with his unparalleled talent, artistry, and dedication to his craft. His performances continue to inspire and move audiences, ensuring that he will always be remembered as one of the greatest tenors of all time.
14. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli, born on June 4, 1966, in Rome, Italy, is one of the most acclaimed and versatile mezzo-sopranos of her generation. Renowned for her exceptional vocal technique, expressive interpretation, and adventurous repertoire choices, Bartoli has captivated audiences around the world with her remarkable talent and artistry.
Bartoli made her operatic debut in 1987 and quickly gained recognition for her extraordinary vocal abilities and dramatic versatility. She became known for her rich, velvety voice, agile coloratura technique, and magnetic stage presence, earning praise for her interpretations of a wide range of roles, from the bel canto heroines of Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti to the dramatic works of Mozart, Handel, and Gluck.
Throughout her illustrious career, Bartoli has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Royal Opera House in London. She has collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the world of opera and classical music.
In addition to her operatic performances, Bartoli is also known for her work as a recitalist, concert artist, and recording artist. She has recorded a vast repertoire of solo albums and recitals, showcasing her versatility and range as a singer. Her recordings of Baroque and bel canto repertoire have earned her widespread acclaim and praise from critics and audiences alike.
Cecilia Bartoli’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as she continues to push the boundaries of vocal artistry and inspire audiences with her extraordinary talent and passion for music. Her recordings and performances continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of vocal artistry, ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos of all time.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, born on November 9, 1965, in Pant Glas, Wales, is one of the most renowned and versatile bass-baritones of his generation. Celebrated for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and expressive artistry, Terfel has captivated audiences around the world with his remarkable talent and charismatic performances.
Terfel made his operatic debut in 1990 and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional vocal abilities and dramatic versatility. He became known for his rich, resonant voice, impeccable phrasing, and ability to embody a wide range of characters, from the noble heroes of Wagner and Verdi to the comic roles of Mozart and Donizetti.
Throughout his illustrious career, Terfel has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Salzburg Festival in Austria. He has collaborated with leading conductors and musicians, starred in numerous acclaimed productions, and earned numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of opera and classical music.
In addition to his operatic performances, Terfel is also known for his work as a concert artist and recording artist. He has recorded a vast repertoire of solo albums and recitals, showcasing his versatility and range as a singer. His recordings of opera arias, art songs, and Welsh folk music have earned him widespread acclaim and praise from critics and audiences alike.
Bryn Terfel’s impact on the world of opera and classical music is immeasurable, as he continues to inspire audiences with his extraordinary talent, passion for music, and dedication to his craft. His recordings and performances continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of vocal artistry, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest bass-baritones of all time.
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.
