Opera is a world where passion, drama, and breathless beauty collide, and at the heart of it are the voices that have defined the genre for centuries. From the commanding tenors who make audiences tremble, to the soaring sopranos whose high notes feel almost otherworldly, opera singers have the power to transport us to another realm. But who among these titans of the stage stands out as the greatest? In this article, we embark on a thrilling journey through time, celebrating the top 15 best opera singers of all time. These are the legends whose unforgettable performances have echoed through the grandest opera houses, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Whether it’s the pure, crystalline voice of Maria Callas or the thunderous, heart-stopping power of Luciano Pavarotti, each artist on this list has redefined what it means to master the art of opera. Prepare to be dazzled as we unveil the voices that have transcended generations, shaping the very essence of operatic history and continuing to inspire audiences around the globe. Let the curtain rise, and let the music begin!
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti is celebrated worldwide as one of opera’s most iconic and beloved tenors, often hailed as “The King of the High C’s” for his extraordinary command of high notes. His voice possessed a rare combination of power and elegance that captivated audiences in every performance. Pavarotti’s rendition of “Nessun Dorma” from Puccini’s Turandot is nothing short of legendary, conveying a compelling mix of strength, vulnerability, and passionate resolve. This performance has become emblematic of his career, inspiring countless musicians and opera enthusiasts alike. His ability to deliver such emotional intensity with apparent ease made his voice seem transcendent, and even today, hearing Pavarotti sing invokes an undeniable emotional response.
Not only was he a master of vocal technique, but his warm personality and charisma also helped bring opera to a broader audience, attracting fans who may never have otherwise explored this art form. Pavarotti’s career spanned from the world’s most prestigious opera houses to massive stadium performances, sharing the stage with musicians from various genres, including rock stars and pop icons. His talent and generosity of spirit brought opera into mainstream consciousness, contributing to the popularity of events like “The Three Tenors” concerts, where he performed alongside Placido Domingo and José Carreras, mesmerizing audiences across the globe.
Pavarotti’s influence on modern opera and his contributions to charity work reflect his dedication to using his art to make a difference. His legacy continues to inspire generations of singers, and his recordings remain a timeless testament to his skill and passion. Through his voice, Pavarotti has left a permanent mark on both opera and the hearts of fans worldwide, reminding everyone of the transcendent power of music.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, known as “La Divina,” stands as a towering figure in opera, recognized not only for her remarkable voice but also for her passionate, deeply committed portrayals of her characters. Callas’s voice, filled with a raw intensity and dramatic depth, gave life to some of opera’s most complex and challenging roles, leaving audiences spellbound. Her performances as Violetta in La Traviata and Norma in Bellini’s Norma set new standards for these roles, imbuing them with a level of emotion and realism rarely seen before her. Each performance was a full emotional experience, with Callas portraying her characters with fierce conviction and haunting vulnerability.
What set Callas apart was not merely her voice but her acting ability and interpretive skills. She was not content to rely solely on vocal technique; instead, she used her entire being to convey the nuances and inner struggles of her characters. Her expressions, gestures, and stage presence were all part of her artistry, creating a complete, multi-dimensional portrayal that resonated powerfully with audiences. Callas’s dedication to authenticity and emotional truth in her roles brought a fresh sense of realism to opera, changing the art form’s standards and expectations.
Beyond her career, Callas faced personal struggles and controversies that only seemed to amplify her enigmatic appeal. Her tragic life story added a layer of mystique to her public persona, leading many to see her as a real-life operatic heroine. To this day, Maria Callas remains a source of fascination and inspiration, her recordings and performances continuing to capture the imaginations of new generations. Her contributions to opera and her impact on vocal technique are immeasurable, making her a timeless and iconic figure in music history.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is truly a titan of opera, with a career that spans more than six decades. Known for his extraordinary versatility, he has taken on over 150 roles—more than any other tenor in history—and remains active as both a singer and conductor, contributing in countless ways to the world of opera. Domingo’s voice, with its rich, robust timbre, has captivated audiences worldwide, and his interpretations of roles in Verdi, Wagner, and Puccini operas have become legendary. Roles like Otello, Siegmund in Die Walküre, and Radamès in Aida showcase his powerful vocal presence, along with his rare ability to communicate deep emotion, drawing audiences into each character’s story.
Domingo is not only a gifted singer but also a conductor and a visionary in opera administration, helping shape the art form’s future. His work in founding Operalia, an international competition to identify and support young opera talent, has ensured that future generations have the opportunity to develop their craft. This dedication to the growth of opera as an institution and art form is a testament to his lifelong commitment to music.
In recent years, Domingo has expanded his repertoire to include baritone roles, showing incredible adaptability and longevity in his career. His interpretation of Germont in La Traviata and other baritone roles demonstrates his continued ability to explore new artistic depths. Plácido Domingo’s legacy is marked by unparalleled achievement, passion, and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera. Through his music and his support of emerging talent, Domingo’s influence will continue to resonate for generations.
4. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, often described as having a “voice of liquid gold,” has captivated audiences worldwide with her stunning lyric soprano voice. Known for her warmth, elegance, and emotional sensitivity, Fleming has delivered unforgettable performances in roles like the Marschallin in Der Rosenkavalier and Desdemona in Verdi’s Otello. Her ability to blend vocal beauty with emotional depth has made her one of the most beloved sopranos of our time. Fleming’s tone is marked by its clarity and richness, capable of evoking the subtlest shades of emotion, bringing life to each character she portrays.
One of the qualities that sets Fleming apart is her versatility across genres. She has successfully crossed over into jazz, Broadway, and even rock, expanding her reach beyond traditional opera fans and showing her incredible range. Her collaboration with film scores and her stunning rendition of “Danny Boy” during the Memorial Day concert in Washington, D.C., showcased her ability to adapt her voice to a wide array of musical expressions. This genre-blending approach has allowed her to bridge the gap between classical and popular music, broadening the appeal of opera to new audiences.
Offstage, Fleming has been a passionate advocate for arts education and health, supporting initiatives that explore the link between music and the mind. Her influence goes beyond music as she inspires countless young artists and advocates for the therapeutic power of the arts. With her remarkable artistry and warmth, Renée Fleming has truly redefined what it means to be a modern soprano, leaving a legacy that transcends the opera world.
5. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso is often regarded as the first true superstar of opera, setting standards that still influence singers today. Known for his rich, powerful tenor voice, Caruso’s recordings from the early 20th century were some of the first to capture the operatic voice on record, making his artistry accessible to a global audience and solidifying his legendary status. His roles as Radamès in Aida, Canio in Pagliacci, and countless others showcased not only his vocal mastery but also his ability to convey raw emotion that resonated deeply with audiences.
Caruso’s voice was remarkably versatile, combining a resonant timbre with an effortless upper range and a rare ability to express deep emotion through his singing. He had a natural charisma that drew people in, and his heartfelt interpretations made each character he portrayed unforgettable. His recording of “Vesti la giubba” from Pagliacci remains a definitive interpretation, embodying the grief and despair of the character with heart-wrenching intensity. Caruso’s impact on opera extended beyond his voice, as he helped bring opera to new audiences through his recordings, making it accessible to people who had never set foot in an opera house.
In many ways, Caruso laid the groundwork for the modern opera star, showing that a performer could achieve both critical and commercial success. His recordings continue to inspire new generations of singers, and his legacy as a pioneer in opera remains unmatched. Enrico Caruso’s name is synonymous with vocal brilliance, making him a timeless figure whose influence has shaped the course of operatic history.
6. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was celebrated for her incredible vocal range and mastery of bel canto, a style demanding intricate vocal runs and flourishes. Her voice had an extraordinary clarity and flexibility, allowing her to navigate the most challenging passages with precision and ease. Known for her interpretations of roles like Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor and Norma in Bellini’s Norma, Sutherland brought these characters to life with her dazzling technique and captivating stage presence, making each performance an unforgettable experience.
Sutherland’s approach to bel canto was groundbreaking. Her voice, with its crystal-clear tone and remarkable control, could soar effortlessly through the most demanding arias. Her performances were both technically brilliant and emotionally resonant, appealing to opera novices and connoisseurs alike. Her portrayal of Lucia, with its famous “mad scene,” left audiences in awe, demonstrating her ability to combine vocal acrobatics with intense character expression.
Beyond her singing career, Sutherland’s impact on the world of opera is felt through her work with young artists, especially in her native Australia, where she advocated for arts education and the development of the next generation of singers. Her recordings and live performances continue to be studied by aspiring singers and opera lovers alike, as they represent some of the finest examples of bel canto technique. Joan Sutherland’s legacy is one of technical brilliance, artistic depth, and dedication to her craft, ensuring her place as one of the greatest sopranos in history.
7. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, the Swedish tenor whose voice is often described as “angelic,” is celebrated for his pure, ringing sound that conveyed both power and delicacy. Known for his performances in Italian and French repertoire, Björling brought extraordinary emotion to roles such as Rodolfo in La Bohème and Alfredo in La Traviata. His voice had an effortless, natural quality that allowed him to transition seamlessly from tender, lyrical moments to expressions of powerful passion, making him a favorite among opera audiences and critics alike.
Björling’s approach to singing was marked by his perfect phrasing and control, which gave his performances a unique sense of clarity and elegance. His recording of “Che gelida manina” from La Bohème remains one of the most beloved versions, showcasing his incredible ability to balance lyrical beauty with emotional intensity. Björling’s voice seemed to glide over the music, giving his performances an almost ethereal quality that distinguished him from other tenors of his time.
Despite his often-shy offstage persona, Björling’s presence on stage was magnetic, capturing audiences with his voice and his commitment to each role. His influence is still felt today, as modern tenors continue to study his recordings to understand his unmatched ability to blend vocal beauty with emotional depth. Jussi Björling’s legacy is preserved in countless recordings that showcase his timeless artistry, and his contributions to opera ensure his place as one of the greatest tenors in history.
8. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price is a groundbreaking figure in opera, known for her dramatic soprano voice and her powerful presence on stage. As one of the first African American singers to achieve international fame in opera, Price broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of diverse talent in the field. Her voice, with its rich, velvety tone and dramatic range, was ideally suited to Verdi’s repertoire, especially in roles like Aida and Leonora in Il Trovatore. Her performances were imbued with a rare intensity, making her a powerful interpreter of complex characters.
Price’s rendition of “O patria mia” from Aida is still regarded as a landmark moment in opera, with her vocal warmth and expressive phrasing bringing this emotional aria to life. She possessed a unique ability to convey strength and vulnerability in her roles, capturing the multifaceted nature of each character. Her portrayal of Aida, in particular, was hailed as definitive, with audiences mesmerized by her command of the role and the emotional honesty she brought to it.
Beyond her musical achievements, Price’s legacy includes her contributions to civil rights and her role as a trailblazer in opera. Her career has been an inspiration to countless young singers of all backgrounds, proving that talent and determination can break down barriers. Leontyne Price’s artistry and her place in history have made her not only one of the most influential sopranos of her generation but also an icon of resilience and excellence in opera.
9. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, the Italian tenor renowned for his charismatic stage presence and thrilling high notes, epitomized the romantic ideal of the operatic tenor. Known for roles like Calaf in Turandot and Manrico in Il Trovatore, Corelli’s performances were marked by an intense emotionalism and vocal power that left audiences breathless. His robust voice had a unique metallic quality that could cut through even the largest orchestras, and his ability to sustain high notes with clarity and passion became his trademark.
Corelli’s portrayal of Calaf, especially in his rendition of “Nessun Dorma,” is legendary. His powerful high notes and dramatic interpretations brought a level of intensity to the role that few could match, creating a sense of suspense and emotion in every performance. Corelli’s ability to switch between powerful, heroic moments and more tender, lyrical expressions gave his characters a sense of depth and complexity that captivated audiences.
Despite his sometimes-reclusive nature offstage, Corelli’s presence on stage was larger than life, and his performances were always highly anticipated. Known for his dedication to his craft, he was constantly working to refine his technique, making him one of the most technically accomplished tenors of his time. Franco Corelli’s legacy lives on in his recordings, which continue to inspire tenors and opera lovers around the world with their electrifying beauty and passion.
10. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli is a mezzo-soprano known for her phenomenal vocal agility, expressive power, and commitment to expanding the operatic repertoire. Bartoli’s voice is characterized by its warmth and flexibility, allowing her to navigate the most demanding coloratura passages with ease. Her performances in roles like Rosina in The Barber of Seville and Isabella in L’italiana in Algeri showcase her technical brilliance and her unique ability to infuse each role with personality and depth, making her a standout in every performance.
One of Bartoli’s most significant contributions to opera has been her dedication to reviving lesser-known works, especially from the Baroque and Classical periods. Her passion for discovering and recording rare arias and operas has not only enriched her own repertoire but has also brought new appreciation for these works to audiences worldwide. Her interpretations of Handel, Vivaldi, and Mozart have set new standards, and her recordings often introduce listeners to hidden gems from opera history.
Bartoli’s dynamic stage presence and commitment to artistic excellence have earned her a devoted following, and her performances continue to push the boundaries of opera. Whether singing a challenging aria or exploring new musical genres, Bartoli brings a level of joy, dedication, and authenticity to her craft that inspires audiences and colleagues alike. Cecilia Bartoli’s legacy is one of innovation, artistry, and passion, making her one of the most beloved mezzo-sopranos of her generation.
11. Kirsten Flagstad
Kirsten Flagstad, one of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of the 20th century, possessed a powerful voice that was perfectly suited for the dramatic demands of Wagner’s music. Known for her interpretations of roles such as Brünnhilde in The Ring Cycle and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde, Flagstad’s voice had a warmth, strength, and clarity that made her a definitive interpreter of these characters. Her performances were marked by an intensity and stamina that enabled her to deliver Wagner’s long, challenging roles with ease.
Flagstad’s voice had a rare purity and fullness that allowed her to soar over Wagner’s dense orchestration, captivating audiences with her vocal strength and emotional depth. Her interpretation of Brünnhilde, a role that requires both physical and emotional endurance, showcased her ability to blend vocal power with subtlety, creating a portrayal that was both heroic and deeply human. Flagstad’s influence extended beyond her voice, as her performances set a standard for the interpretation of Wagner’s music that continues to be admired and studied by singers today.
Her legacy as one of the greatest dramatic sopranos is preserved in her numerous recordings, which capture the timeless beauty and power of her voice. Kirsten Flagstad’s contributions to the interpretation of Wagner have left an indelible mark on opera, ensuring that her influence will be felt for generations to come.
12. Beniamino Gigli
Beniamino Gigli, often regarded as the “second Caruso,” was a tenor whose voice was celebrated for its warmth, beauty, and lyrical phrasing. Known for his emotionally charged performances, Gigli’s interpretations of roles like Rodolfo in La Bohème and Cavaradossi in Tosca were filled with tenderness, passion, and a heartfelt connection to the music. His voice had a distinctive, velvety quality that allowed him to convey deep emotion, making each character he portrayed feel authentic and moving.
Gigli’s approach to singing was marked by a sensitivity and attention to detail that gave his performances an intimate, personal quality. His recording of “E lucevan le stelle” from Tosca remains one of the most moving interpretations, capturing the despair and longing of the character with remarkable beauty. Gigli’s voice was not only technically superb but also rich in emotional nuance, making his performances resonate deeply with audiences.
As a leading Italian tenor of his time, Gigli’s recordings continue to be cherished by opera lovers around the world, and his legacy as one of the greatest lyrical tenors endures. His ability to balance technical mastery with heartfelt emotion set a standard that tenors today continue to admire and aspire to. Beniamino Gigli’s legacy is one of vocal beauty, emotional honesty, and an enduring connection to the heart of Italian opera.
13. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson’s voice was a force like no other, renowned for its power, precision, and brilliance. Known especially for her interpretations of Wagner and Richard Strauss, Nilsson possessed a soprano voice that could cut through the heaviest orchestral textures with astounding clarity. Her roles as Brünnhilde in The Ring Cycle and Elektra in Elektra showcased her incredible stamina and vocal strength, making her a legendary figure in the world of dramatic opera. Her voice had a steely resonance, which, combined with her superb technique, made her an ideal interpreter of these complex roles.
Nilsson’s performances were marked by her commanding presence and her ability to inhabit her characters fully, bringing a combination of power and vulnerability to her portrayals. She was known for her stamina, effortlessly handling Wagner’s famously demanding compositions, often performing back-to-back operas with an endurance that left audiences and critics in awe. Her recording of “Immolation Scene” from Götterdämmerung remains a powerful example of her artistry, capturing both the tragic beauty and the heroic depth of Brünnhilde’s final moments.
Nilsson’s reputation extended beyond her vocal abilities; her wit, charm, and humility made her a beloved figure offstage as well. She inspired countless sopranos to take on challenging repertoire, and her legacy is cemented in recordings that continue to set the gold standard for Wagnerian and Strauss interpretations. Birgit Nilsson’s contributions to opera have left an enduring impact, solidifying her as one of the greatest dramatic sopranos of all time.
14. Montserrat Caballé
Montserrat Caballé was celebrated for her extraordinary control, exquisite phrasing, and her ability to sing with a soft, ethereal quality that few could match. Known for her bel canto roles, Caballé brought grace and elegance to operas such as Norma and La Traviata, captivating audiences with her ability to deliver delicate pianissimo notes with incredible clarity. Her voice had a purity and richness that gave her interpretations a unique beauty, allowing her to convey both strength and vulnerability within a single phrase.
Caballé’s famous collaboration with Freddie Mercury on the song “Barcelona” highlighted her versatility and her willingness to push the boundaries of opera by merging it with other musical genres. This crossover brought opera to new audiences and showcased her adventurous spirit and openness to innovation. In the opera world, her interpretation of Norma’s aria “Casta Diva” remains iconic, demonstrating her breathtaking control, flawless technique, and emotional depth.
Her dedication to her craft, combined with her natural charisma, made her one of the most beloved sopranos of her time. Caballé’s recordings remain beloved treasures, capturing her angelic voice and the elegance she brought to every performance. Montserrat Caballé’s legacy lives on, inspiring countless sopranos with her artistry and her fearless approach to expanding the reach of opera.
15. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau was a baritone known for his intellectual approach, emotional depth, and meticulous attention to text. A master of German Lieder, Fischer-Dieskau brought new life to the art song repertoire, making works by Schubert, Schumann, and Brahms accessible and deeply moving for modern audiences. His interpretations of roles like Wotan in The Ring Cycle and Wolfram in Tannhäuser were marked by his ability to convey the complexities of each character, making him one of the most revered baritones in operatic history.
Fischer-Dieskau’s voice was rich and velvety, with a precision and clarity that made each word resonate with meaning. His recording of Schubert’s Winterreise is considered a landmark, as he brought an unparalleled emotional depth and understanding to each song. Known for his exceptional phrasing and his ability to communicate the subtleties of each character’s emotions, Fischer-Dieskau’s approach influenced an entire generation of baritones and continues to be studied by singers worldwide.
Beyond his vocal achievements, Fischer-Dieskau was a consummate artist whose insights into music and poetry were as renowned as his voice. His recordings continue to be celebrated for their beauty and depth, solidifying his place as one of the greatest interpreters of German art song and opera. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau’s legacy is one of profound musicality, and his contributions to the world of opera and song are timeless.
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.
