Opera singers are highly skilled vocalists trained in the art of operatic performance, characterized by their powerful projection, wide vocal range, and emotive delivery. They perform in opera houses and concert halls, often accompanied by orchestras, and specialize in interpreting classical compositions from composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, and Wagner.
Opera singers undergo rigorous training to develop their vocal technique, which includes mastering breath control, vocal agility, and the ability to convey dramatic emotions through their singing. They typically specialize in specific vocal categories, such as soprano, mezzo-soprano, tenor, baritone, or bass, each requiring distinct vocal characteristics and roles within opera productions.
Opera singers often perform in multiple languages, as operas are composed in Italian, German, French, and other languages, requiring proficiency in pronunciation and interpretation. Their performances combine vocal prowess with acting skills to bring characters to life on stage, creating immersive and emotionally resonant theatrical experiences for audiences worldwide.
1. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, born on December 2, 1923, in New York City, was one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 20th century. Known for her extraordinary vocal range, dramatic intensity, and unparalleled stage presence, Callas remains an icon in the world of opera.
Her career spanned from the 1940s to the early 1970s, during which she performed extensively in leading opera houses around the world. Callas was renowned for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Bellini, and Donizetti. Her voice, characterized by its distinctive timbre and emotional depth, allowed her to portray a wide range of characters with nuance and power.
Beyond her vocal talent, Maria Callas was admired for her ability to embody the dramatic essence of her roles, captivating audiences with her acting prowess and commitment to her characters’ emotional journeys. Her performances in iconic roles like Violetta in “La Traviata” and Tosca in Puccini’s opera of the same name are legendary and continue to influence opera singers and performers today.
Maria Callas’ legacy extends beyond her performances; she was also known for her intelligence, charisma, and uncompromising dedication to her art. Her recordings and live performances are treasured for their artistic excellence and continue to inspire opera enthusiasts and musicians worldwide, cementing her reputation as one of the greatest opera singers of all time.
2. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, born on October 12, 1935, in Modena, Italy, was one of the most celebrated and influential operatic tenors of the 20th century. Known for his powerful and emotive voice, Pavarotti captivated audiences worldwide with his exceptional vocal range, clarity, and exquisite phrasing.
Pavarotti’s career spanned several decades, beginning in the 1960s and continuing into the early 2000s. He gained international acclaim for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and others. His performances at prestigious opera houses, including La Scala in Milan and the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the opera world.
Beyond the opera stage, Pavarotti reached a broader audience through his charismatic personality and numerous crossover performances. He collaborated with popular artists from various genres, including pop stars like Sting and Bono, expanding the reach of classical music to new audiences.
Pavarotti’s rendition of “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s opera “Turandot” became his signature aria and a symbol of his vocal mastery. His live performances, including the “Three Tenors” concerts with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras, became iconic cultural events, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with his voice and stage presence.
Throughout his career, Pavarotti received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and a Kennedy Center Honor. He was also known for his humanitarian efforts, supporting various charitable causes through benefit concerts and fundraising.
Luciano Pavarotti passed away on September 6, 2007, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest tenors in opera history. His recordings and performances continue to inspire and enchant audiences, ensuring that his impact on classical music and popular culture endures.
3. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, born on February 14, 1959, in Indiana, USA, is a renowned American soprano known for her versatility, vocal beauty, and captivating stage presence. Throughout her illustrious career, Fleming has established herself as one of the leading opera singers of her generation and a prominent figure in the classical music world.
Fleming’s soprano voice is celebrated for its warm, rich timbre and exceptional range, allowing her to excel in a wide repertoire that spans from Baroque to contemporary opera. She is particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of Mozart, Strauss, Verdi, and Handel, among others. Her ability to convey emotional depth through her singing, coupled with her impeccable technique and phrasing, has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted international following.
In addition to her operatic performances, Renée Fleming has performed extensively in concert and recital settings, collaborating with leading orchestras and conductors worldwide. Her versatility extends beyond classical music; she has explored jazz, Broadway, and contemporary repertoire, demonstrating her ability to cross genres with ease while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
Throughout her career, Fleming has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and the National Medal of Arts. She is also recognized for her commitment to arts education and advocacy for music and culture.
Renée Fleming’s enduring influence on the world of opera and classical music is marked by her exquisite voice, artistic versatility, and profound interpretations. Her recordings and live performances continue to inspire audiences and aspiring singers, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of her generation.
4. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo, born on January 21, 1941, in Madrid, Spain, is a world-renowned Spanish opera singer and conductor. Widely regarded as one of the greatest and most versatile opera singers of all time, Domingo has had a remarkable career spanning over six decades.
Domingo’s vocal range and dramatic intensity have made him particularly renowned for his performances in the lyric-dramatic and dramatic tenor roles of the Italian and French repertoires. He has performed at all the major opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, and the Vienna State Opera.
Throughout his career, Domingo has been celebrated for his extraordinary ability to portray a wide range of characters, from romantic heroes to complex anti-heroes. He has sung over 150 roles and continues to expand his repertoire, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the art form.
In addition to his achievements as a singer, Plácido Domingo has also made significant contributions as a conductor and opera administrator. He has conducted numerous operatic and symphonic performances, including at prestigious venues like the Los Angeles Opera, where he served as the General Director from 2003 to 2019.
Domingo’s contributions to opera have earned him numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and recognition as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. He remains a beloved figure in the world of classical music, admired for his vocal prowess, artistic vision, and enduring dedication to opera and musical excellence.
5. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, born on November 7, 1926, in Sydney, Australia, was a legendary Australian dramatic coloratura soprano known for her remarkable vocal agility, extensive range, and stunning vocal control. Often referred to as “La Stupenda” (the stupendous one), Sutherland’s career spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on the world of opera.
Sutherland’s voice was celebrated for its purity, power, and flexibility, which enabled her to effortlessly navigate the demanding roles of bel canto repertoire. She excelled in the works of composers such as Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini, showcasing her ability to perform elaborate coloratura passages with precision and clarity.
Her international breakthrough came in 1959 with her performance as Lucia in Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor” at the Royal Opera House in London, where she displayed her extraordinary vocal range and dramatic prowess. This performance catapulted her to global fame and established her as one of the leading sopranos of her time.
Throughout her career, Joan Sutherland garnered critical acclaim and performed in the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and La Scala in Milan. Her interpretations of roles like Norma in Bellini’s opera of the same name and Violetta in Verdi’s “La Traviata” are considered definitive and continue to influence sopranos today.
Beyond her vocal talent, Joan Sutherland was known for her humility, dedication to her craft, and support for emerging opera singers. Her recordings remain cherished classics, showcasing her unparalleled vocal artistry and technical prowess.
Joan Sutherland’s legacy as one of the greatest sopranos in opera history is defined by her exceptional vocal gifts, mastery of bel canto repertoire, and enduring impact on the art form. Her contributions to opera continue to inspire and awe audiences worldwide, securing her place among the opera greats.
6. José Carreras
José Carreras, born on December 5, 1946, in Barcelona, Spain, is a renowned Spanish operatic tenor celebrated for his rich voice, lyrical phrasing, and emotional depth. He is one of the acclaimed “Three Tenors” alongside Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti, known for their collaborative concerts and recordings that brought opera to a global audience.
Carreras began his career in the early 1970s, gaining recognition for his performances in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His warm, expressive voice and passionate interpretations endeared him to opera enthusiasts worldwide, establishing him as a leading tenor in the operatic community.
Throughout his career, Carreras performed at prestigious opera houses and concert halls, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, and the Royal Opera House in London. He was acclaimed for his portrayal of romantic leads and tragic heroes, earning accolades for his dramatic intensity and vocal prowess.
In addition to his opera career, José Carreras is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his dedication to leukemia research. He established the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation, which has raised significant funds for research and patient support services.
Carreras’ performances, recordings, and humanitarian work have earned him numerous awards and honors, including the Grand Cross of the Civil Order of Alfonso X, the Wise, and the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts. His enduring legacy as a versatile and compassionate artist continues to inspire opera lovers and music enthusiasts around the world.
7. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé, born on April 12, 1933, in Barcelona, Spain, was a revered Spanish operatic soprano known for her extraordinary vocal range, impeccable technique, and expressive interpretations. She rose to international prominence during the 1960s and 1970s, becoming one of the most acclaimed and beloved opera singers of her generation.
Caballé’s voice was characterized by its purity, power, and versatility, allowing her to excel in a wide range of repertoire, from bel canto to dramatic opera. She was particularly celebrated for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Bellini, Donizetti, Puccini, and Strauss. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her singing, combined with her exquisite phrasing and dynamic control, captivated audiences and critics alike.
One of Caballé’s career-defining moments came in 1965 when she substituted for Marilyn Horne as Lucrezia Borgia at the Carnegie Hall in New York City, receiving widespread acclaim for her performance. This marked the beginning of her international career, which included engagements at prestigious opera houses around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, and the Royal Opera House.
In addition to her operatic achievements, Montserrat Caballé collaborated with artists from various musical genres, including pop, jazz, and traditional Spanish music. Her duet with Freddie Mercury of Queen, “Barcelona,” became a global hit and showcased her versatility and crossover appeal.
Throughout her career, Caballé received numerous awards and honors, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts. Her recordings are cherished for their beauty and artistry, preserving her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos in opera history.
Montserrat Caballé’s profound impact on the world of opera continues to resonate, inspiring generations of singers and enchanting audiences with her remarkable voice and artistry. Her contributions to the art form remain a testament to her enduring legacy as a cultural icon and one of the most celebrated voices of the 20th century.
8. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, born on May 17, 1918, in Sweden and passed away on December 25, 2005, was a renowned Swedish dramatic soprano celebrated for her powerful voice, exceptional range, and commanding stage presence. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of the 20th century and was known for her ability to effortlessly tackle the most demanding roles in opera.
Nilsson’s career spanned several decades, from the 1940s to the 1980s, during which she performed at leading opera houses worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, the Vienna State Opera, and the Royal Opera House in London. Her roles in operas by Richard Wagner, such as Isolde in “Tristan und Isolde” and Brünnhilde in the “Ring Cycle,” showcased her vocal stamina, dramatic intensity, and mastery of the soprano repertoire.
In addition to her Wagnerian roles, Birgit Nilsson was admired for her interpretations of roles in operas by Richard Strauss, Giuseppe Verdi, and Giacomo Puccini. Her distinctive voice, characterized by its clarity, power, and purity of tone, made her a favorite among opera enthusiasts and critics alike.
Throughout her illustrious career, Nilsson received numerous awards and honors, including the Légion d’Honneur from France and the Kennedy Center Honor in the United States. She was also known for her warm personality and sense of humor, endearing herself to colleagues and audiences alike.
Birgit Nilsson’s recordings and live performances continue to be cherished by opera aficionados, and her legacy as a supreme Wagnerian soprano remains unparalleled in the history of opera. Her contributions to the art form and her influence on subsequent generations of singers continue to resonate, ensuring her place among the opera greats of all time.
9. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, born on April 8, 1921, in Ancona, Italy, was a renowned Italian dramatic tenor celebrated for his powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and passionate interpretations. He rose to prominence during the mid-20th century and became one of the leading tenors of his generation.
Corelli’s voice was characterized by its distinctive timbre, ringing high notes, and effortless vocal agility, which allowed him to excel in the dramatic and heroic roles of Italian opera. He was particularly acclaimed for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and Giordano. Corelli’s ability to combine vocal strength with lyrical beauty and emotional intensity made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
One of Corelli’s career-defining roles was as Radamès in Verdi’s “Aida,” a role he performed with great success at the Metropolitan Opera and other major opera houses. His electrifying stage presence and thrilling vocal performances captivated audiences worldwide and solidified his reputation as a leading dramatic tenor.
Beyond his operatic career, Franco Corelli was known for his collaborations with other opera legends, including Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi, and for his recordings that showcase his vocal prowess and artistry. His live performances and recordings continue to be cherished for their dramatic intensity, vocal brilliance, and passionate interpretations.
Franco Corelli’s legacy as one of the greatest dramatic tenors of the 20th century endures, influencing generations of opera singers and opera lovers with his exceptional voice, commanding stage presence, and unforgettable performances. His contributions to the art of opera remain a testament to his enduring impact on the world of classical music.
10. Mirella Freni
Mirella Freni, born on February 27, 1935, in Modena, Italy, and passed away on February 9, 2020, was a celebrated Italian soprano renowned for her lyrical voice, versatility, and deeply expressive interpretations. She was hailed as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century, known for her exceptional technique and ability to inhabit a wide range of roles with authenticity and emotional depth.
Freni’s career spanned over five decades, beginning in the 1950s and continuing into the early 2000s. She gained international acclaim for her performances in operas by composers such as Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Jules Massenet. Her roles in works like Puccini’s “La Bohème,” Verdi’s “La Traviata,” and Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” showcased her versatility and mastery of both dramatic and lyric soprano roles.
Known for her warm, velvety voice and impeccable phrasing, Mirella Freni was admired for her ability to convey the emotional nuances of her characters, capturing audiences with her expressive interpretations and natural stage presence. She performed at leading opera houses around the world, including La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, and the Vienna State Opera.
In addition to her opera career, Freni was also acclaimed for her interpretations of art songs and vocal chamber music, demonstrating her versatility as a singer. Her recordings and live performances continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts, showcasing her enduring legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of her generation.
Mirella Freni received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including the Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording and the Italian Order of Merit. She was beloved for her humility, dedication to her craft, and contributions to the world of opera, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence opera singers and music lovers worldwide.
11. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price, born on February 10, 1927, in Laurel, Mississippi, is an iconic American soprano renowned for her exceptional voice, versatility, and profound interpretations. She emerged as one of the leading opera singers of the 20th century, celebrated for her commanding stage presence and ability to convey deep emotion through her singing.
Price’s voice was characterized by its rich, velvety tone, remarkable range, and technical mastery, which allowed her to excel in both lyric and dramatic soprano roles. She became particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, and Strauss. Her performances in iconic roles like Aida, Tosca, and Cio-Cio-San in “Madama Butterfly” were hailed for their vocal beauty, dramatic intensity, and emotional depth.
Leontyne Price made history in 1961 when she became the first African American soprano to perform a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, portraying the title role in Verdi’s “Aida.” Her triumphant debut marked a significant milestone in opera history and paved the way for future generations of African American opera singers.
Throughout her illustrious career, Price received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Her recordings and live performances continue to be revered for their artistic brilliance and timeless quality, showcasing her extraordinary voice and interpretive gifts.
Leontyne Price’s legacy extends beyond her vocal talent; she remains a cultural icon and a symbol of excellence in opera. Her contributions to the art form and her trailblazing achievements have inspired countless opera singers and music lovers worldwide, solidifying her place as one of the greatest sopranos of all time.
12. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, born on February 1, 1922, in Pesaro, Italy, and passed away on December 19, 2004, was a revered Italian soprano renowned for her warm, velvety voice, impeccable technique, and emotive interpretations. She was one of the leading operatic sopranos of the mid-20th century, celebrated for her lyrical purity, dramatic power, and ability to convey deep emotion through her singing.
Tebaldi’s career spanned from the late 1940s to the 1970s, during which she performed extensively at major opera houses and concert halls worldwide. She gained international acclaim for her interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Giuseppe Verdi, Giacomo Puccini, Giacomo Meyerbeer, and Richard Strauss. Her roles in works like Verdi’s “La Traviata,” Puccini’s “Tosca,” and Strauss’s “Der Rosenkavalier” showcased her versatility and vocal brilliance.
Known for her rich, lyrical voice characterized by its warmth and beauty, Renata Tebaldi was admired for her technical mastery, impeccable phrasing, and ability to convey the emotional depth of her characters. She was particularly celebrated for her soaring high notes and expressive legato, which captivated audiences and critics alike.
Tebaldi’s recordings and live performances continue to be cherished by opera enthusiasts, showcasing her enduring legacy as one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century. Her collaboration with conductors like Arturo Toscanini and Herbert von Karajan further cemented her reputation as a definitive interpreter of Italian opera.
Throughout her career, Renata Tebaldi received numerous awards and honors, including the Kennedy Center Honors and the Italian Order of Merit. She remains a beloved figure in the world of opera, remembered for her artistry, generosity, and contributions to the cultural heritage of opera.
13. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, born on February 5, 1911, in Sweden, was a legendary Swedish tenor known for his exceptional voice, technical virtuosity, and heartfelt interpretations. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest operatic tenors of the 20th century, celebrated for his lyricism, purity of tone, and emotional depth in his performances.
Björling’s voice was characterized by its natural beauty, clarity, and effortless high notes, which allowed him to excel in a wide range of repertoire, from Italian bel canto to German opera and French opera. He was particularly renowned for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, Bizet, and Wagner. His ability to convey the emotional nuances of characters through his singing, combined with his technical brilliance and expressive phrasing, captivated audiences and critics alike.
One of Björling’s most famous roles was as Rodolfo in Puccini’s “La Bohème,” a role he performed with great success at the Metropolitan Opera and other major opera houses around the world. His sensitive portrayal of characters, coupled with his powerful and nuanced vocal performances, made him a favorite among opera enthusiasts.
Beyond his operatic career, Jussi Björling was known for his recordings, which continue to be cherished for their artistic excellence and technical perfection. His interpretations of arias and songs from the operatic repertoire remain definitive and serve as a benchmark for aspiring tenors.
Jussi Björling’s legacy as one of the greatest tenors in opera history endures, influencing generations of singers with his extraordinary voice, musical sensitivity, and profound interpretations. His contributions to the art form continue to inspire admiration and awe, solidifying his place among the opera greats of the 20th century.
14. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli, born on June 4, 1966, in Rome, Italy, is a world-renowned mezzo-soprano celebrated for her exceptional vocal technique, expressive interpretations, and wide-ranging repertoire. She is considered one of the most versatile and accomplished opera singers of her generation.
Bartoli’s voice is characterized by its agility, warmth, and expressive power, which allow her to excel in both bel canto and Baroque repertoire. She is particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of roles by composers such as Rossini, Mozart, Handel, and Vivaldi. Her vocal virtuosity, combined with her ability to convey deep emotion and character through her singing, has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted international following.
One of Bartoli’s career-defining roles was as Rosina in Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville,” a role she has performed with great success at major opera houses worldwide. Her interpretations of coloratura passages and dramatic scenes showcase her technical brilliance and artistic sensitivity, making her performances unforgettable.
In addition to her operatic career, Cecilia Bartoli is known for her explorations of lesser-known repertoire, championing neglected works and uncovering hidden gems in the history of opera. Her recordings are celebrated for their creativity and meticulous attention to historical authenticity, bringing new insights into the music of past centuries.
Throughout her career, Bartoli has received numerous awards and honors, including Grammy Awards and the title of “Dame Commander” from the Order of the British Empire. Her recordings and live performances continue to captivate audiences with their beauty, artistry, and emotional depth, solidifying her reputation as one of the greatest mezzo-sopranos of her time.
Cecilia Bartoli’s enduring influence on the world of opera and classical music is marked by her exceptional voice, artistic versatility, and dedication to her craft. Her contributions to opera continue to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide, securing her place among the opera greats of the 21st century.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, born on November 9, 1965, in Wales, is a renowned Welsh bass-baritone celebrated for his powerful voice, charismatic stage presence, and versatility across a wide range of operatic and concert repertoire. He is considered one of the leading opera singers of his generation, known for his commanding performances and ability to embody both heroic and comedic roles with equal brilliance.
Terfel’s career has spanned several decades, during which he has performed at major opera houses and concert venues worldwide. He gained international acclaim for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Giuseppe Verdi, Richard Wagner, and Benjamin Britten. His roles in works like Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” Verdi’s “Falstaff,” Wagner’s “Der Ring des Nibelungen,” and Britten’s “Peter Grimes” have showcased his versatility and vocal prowess.
Known for his robust and resonant voice, Bryn Terfel is admired for his impeccable technique, expressive phrasing, and ability to convey the emotional depth of his characters. He is particularly acclaimed for his commanding stage presence and natural charisma, which have made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
In addition to his opera career, Terfel has also excelled in concert performances, performing a wide range of vocal repertoire from lieder and art songs to oratorio and contemporary compositions. His recordings and live performances continue to be highly regarded, showcasing his exceptional talent and artistry.
Bryn Terfel has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including Grammy Awards for his recordings and the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to music. He remains a respected figure in the world of opera and classical music, admired for his contributions to the art form and his enduring impact on audiences worldwide.