Opera, a breathtaking art form that weaves together music, drama, and visual spectacle, has captivated audiences for centuries. From the grand stages of La Scala to the intimate settings of local theaters, the voices of extraordinary singers have brought timeless stories to life, resonating with emotions that transcend language and culture. In this exploration of the top 15 best opera singers of all time, we celebrate the remarkable talents that have defined and redefined the genre.
Imagine the power of a single, soaring note that can evoke tears, joy, or nostalgia. Each singer on our list has not only mastered the technical demands of their craft but has also infused their performances with a distinctive artistry that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners. From the legendary voices of the past to contemporary icons who continue to inspire, these artists have shaped the landscape of opera in profound ways. Join us as we journey through the lives and legacies of these vocal titans, discovering what makes their contributions to opera truly unforgettable. Prepare to be transported into a world where every note tells a story and every performance is a celebration of the human spirit!
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors of all time, revolutionized opera with his magnificent voice and electrifying stage presence. Born in Modena, Italy, in 1935, Pavarotti’s rise to international fame began in the 1960s, and he soon became a household name, known not only for his operatic prowess but also for his ability to connect with audiences across genres. His performances in iconic operas like La Bohème and Turandot showcased his vocal range, technical mastery, and deep emotional expression, earning him admiration from both opera connoisseurs and casual music fans alike.
Pavarotti’s ability to convey profound emotion through his singing was one of his most extraordinary gifts. Whether singing a heartfelt aria or the powerful “Nessun Dorma” from Turandot, his voice conveyed a depth of feeling that resonated with audiences worldwide. His commanding stage presence made every performance an event, drawing listeners into the emotional core of the opera. But Pavarotti wasn’t just an operatic figure—he became a cultural icon, helping to bring opera to new audiences, performing with pop stars like Bono and Elton John, and even appearing on television specials.
One of his most memorable moments came with The Three Tenors concert in 1990, alongside José Carreras and Plácido Domingo. The concert, which attracted millions of viewers, showcased Pavarotti’s extraordinary vocal power and cemented his legacy as one of the most influential classical musicians of the 20th century. Beyond his vocal accomplishments, Pavarotti was also known for his philanthropy, supporting numerous causes and bringing attention to important social issues. His legacy endures, inspiring singers of all genres and captivating audiences with the timeless beauty of his voice.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, often referred to as “La Divina,” was one of the most iconic and influential opera singers of the 20th century. Born in New York City in 1923 to Greek immigrant parents, Callas’s voice and stage presence left an indelible mark on the world of opera. What set Callas apart was not only her remarkable vocal technique but also her ability to convey intense emotion through every note she sang. She was an actress as much as a singer, infusing her roles with unparalleled depth and dramatic flair. Her renditions of operatic masterpieces, such as Norma and Tosca, remain some of the most iconic in history.
Callas’s voice was distinctive, characterized by its unusual timbre and dramatic flexibility. She was known for her ability to adapt her voice to the demands of various roles, seamlessly shifting between vocal registers and exploring complex emotional landscapes within each aria. Her performances were intense, and she brought a rare vulnerability and strength to every character she portrayed. Whether singing the tragic title role in Norma or the passionate Tosca, Callas’s artistry was unparalleled.
Her personal life, marked by tumultuous relationships and public struggles, often overshadowed her professional achievements. Yet, these complexities only deepened the public’s fascination with her. Callas’s ability to convey pain, longing, and joy through her voice left a lasting impression on the world of opera. To this day, she remains a symbol of both vocal excellence and the dramatic artistry that opera can achieve, inspiring singers across generations to strive for emotional depth in their performances.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo, a tenor and conductor from Spain, has been a monumental figure in the world of opera for over five decades. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo’s career began in the 1960s, and his voice, described as one of the most beautiful and versatile in the world, quickly became known for its richness and depth. Unlike many other tenors, Domingo has built a career that spans multiple operatic styles, including both heroic tenor roles and more lyric parts. His incredible versatility allowed him to sing everything from Carmen to Otello with equal precision and passion.
Domingo’s voice is often described as possessing a unique warmth and resonance, qualities that made him a favorite among both traditional opera lovers and new audiences alike. He has not only been a prominent figure in the opera world as a performer but also as a conductor and arts administrator. His commitment to bringing opera to a global audience led to numerous performances in major opera houses worldwide, and he played a significant role in shaping the future of opera through his administrative work.
His Three Tenors performances, often with Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras, solidified his place as a cultural icon. The concerts, especially the famous 1990 performance, were watched by millions and brought opera into the mainstream, breaking down barriers between classical and popular music. Domingo’s career has continued to evolve, moving into baritone roles in recent years, showing that his artistry and dedication to music have no limits. Today, Domingo remains a revered figure in the opera world, celebrated not only for his singing but also for his lasting impact on the art form itself.
4. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was one of the most gifted sopranos of the 20th century, renowned for her incredible vocal technique and her ability to execute even the most challenging bel canto roles. Born in Sydney, Australia, in 1926, Sutherland’s voice was marked by its extraordinary range, power, and beauty. Her career took off in the 1950s, and she quickly became one of the most celebrated singers of her time, particularly known for her interpretations of works by composers such as Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini.
Sutherland’s vocal technique was nothing short of remarkable. She was known for her ability to sing with an effortless and pure tone, even in the most demanding passages. Her voice had a crystalline quality, and she could effortlessly navigate difficult coloratura passages, a hallmark of the bel canto tradition. Her performances in Lucia di Lammermoor and Norma are still considered some of the greatest operatic performances of all time. What made Sutherland stand out was her ability to combine vocal prowess with deep emotional expression, infusing her roles with sensitivity and elegance.
In addition to her extraordinary singing, Sutherland’s partnership with her husband, conductor Richard Bonynge, helped revitalize interest in many forgotten operas, particularly those of the bel canto tradition. The two were instrumental in reviving works by composers like Donizetti and Bellini, bringing them to modern audiences and creating a lasting legacy for the genre. Sutherland’s voice, full of power, grace, and beauty, remains an inspiration to opera singers everywhere, and her contributions to the world of opera continue to resonate in the performances of today’s singers.
5. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is one of the most versatile and acclaimed sopranos of her generation, renowned for her lyric voice and captivating stage presence. Born in 1959 in the United States, Fleming’s career began in the late 1980s and she quickly became known for her striking ability to combine vocal beauty with profound emotional depth. She is celebrated for her performances in operas like Rusalka and The Merry Widow, but her talent extends beyond opera into concert and crossover genres, where she has earned critical acclaim for her collaborations with contemporary composers and musicians.
Fleming’s voice is often described as velvety and warm, with a lyrical quality that allows her to convey a wide range of emotions, from the deepest sorrow to the most joyful celebration. In her performances, she is able to seamlessly combine technical mastery with expressive artistry, making her one of the most beloved and respected sopranos of her time. Whether she is singing in the opera house or performing in a concert hall, Fleming’s ability to connect with her audience on an emotional level sets her apart from many of her peers.
Her ability to navigate both traditional opera and contemporary works has allowed her to shape the modern operatic landscape, earning her numerous Grammy Awards and critical accolades. Renée Fleming is also a passionate advocate for music education and has worked to promote the arts to new generations of listeners. Through her artistry and tireless dedication to music, Fleming has become a true ambassador for the art of opera, inspiring new audiences and future generations of opera singers.
6. Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Dmitri Hvorostovsky, the Russian baritone known for his strikingly deep and resonant voice, captivated audiences around the world with his magnetic stage presence and passionate performances. Born in Siberia in 1962, Hvorostovsky’s rise to international stardom began in the 1980s after winning the prestigious BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition. His rich, velvety voice, combined with his dramatic interpretations, earned him a reputation as one of the greatest baritones of his generation. His performances in operas like Eugene Onegin and Rigoletto are considered legendary, marked by both vocal precision and intense emotional expression.
Hvaorostovsky’s voice had a unique depth, with a warmth that seemed to radiate from within, drawing listeners into the emotional heart of every aria he performed. His portrayal of the title role in Eugene Onegin is often regarded as one of the definitive interpretations of the character, capturing the Russian aristocrat’s inner turmoil with both subtlety and grandeur. Similarly, in Rigoletto, Hvorostovsky’s powerful portrayal of the tragic jester was nothing short of unforgettable, as he conveyed the character’s sorrow, rage, and love with equal measure.
Despite battling health challenges, including a diagnosis of brain cancer in 2015, Hvorostovsky continued to perform at the highest level, showing incredible strength and resilience in the face of adversity. His ability to bring even more depth to his performances as his health declined only made his artistry more profound. His legacy as a baritone who combined impeccable technique with extraordinary emotional range continues to inspire generations of singers and opera lovers worldwide.
7. Beverly Sills
Beverly Sills, one of the most celebrated American sopranos, was known for her extraordinary vocal technique, remarkable stage presence, and unwavering commitment to making opera more accessible to a broader audience. Born in 1929 in Brooklyn, New York, Sills quickly rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming one of the most beloved figures in American opera. Known for her roles in works by Bellini, Handel, and Puccini, Sills brought a distinctive blend of vocal brilliance and dramatic intensity to her performances, winning over audiences with both her technical precision and her emotional depth.
Her most famous roles included Lucia di Lammermoor and The Siege of Corinth, where her ability to navigate intricate vocal passages with ease and expressivity set her apart from other sopranos of her time. Sills was renowned for her incredible range, which allowed her to sing both light and dramatic roles with equal success, and for her ability to bring out the emotional complexity of the characters she portrayed. Whether singing in a grand opera house or a more intimate setting, Sills captivated her listeners with the beauty and clarity of her voice.
Beyond her singing career, Sills was an advocate for the arts and for music education. She worked tirelessly to make opera more accessible to the general public, believing deeply in the power of music to connect people and inspire joy. After retiring from the stage, Sills became a prominent administrator, helping to guide the future of the New York City Opera and furthering her mission to bring opera to a wider audience. Her legacy lives on through her contributions to the world of opera and the many artists she inspired along the way.
8. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, the Italian tenor whose career spanned much of the 20th century, is remembered for his powerful, commanding voice and his dramatic presence on stage. Born in 1921 in Ancona, Italy, Corelli’s rise to stardom in the 1950s was swift, and he became one of the most prominent and beloved tenors of his time. His performances in operas such as Turandot and Aida showcased his extraordinary vocal strength, which could carry over even the largest orchestras. His ability to deliver powerful high notes and sustain them with incredible precision made him a favorite among audiences and critics alike.
Corelli was known for his passionate and intense stage presence, which complemented his vocal prowess. His roles often demanded dramatic flair, and Corelli was able to match his vocal power with an equally potent physical presence. Whether portraying the heroic Calaf in Turandot or the tragic title character in Andrea Chénier, Corelli’s voice could convey both the grandeur and the vulnerability of his characters. His ability to evoke powerful emotions with just a single note set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
In addition to his vocal abilities, Corelli was admired for his rigorous work ethic and deep commitment to his craft. He was known for being a perfectionist, always striving to refine his technique and deliver the best possible performance. His influence on the world of opera continues to be felt today, with many modern tenors citing him as a major influence on their own work. Corelli’s contributions to opera and his lasting impact on the art form are a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication.
9. Anna Netrebko
Anna Netrebko, the Russian soprano, has become one of the most prominent and exciting figures in the world of opera since her rise to fame in the early 2000s. Born in 1971 in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Netrebko’s powerful voice and captivating stage presence quickly earned her international recognition. Known for her dramatic interpretations and her extraordinary vocal technique, Netrebko has made her mark in operas ranging from La Traviata to Don Giovanni, bringing a fresh energy to the traditional opera stage.
Netrebko’s voice is both powerful and versatile, able to convey a wide range of emotions with ease. Her remarkable ability to navigate the most challenging vocal passages while maintaining a pure, lyrical sound has earned her accolades across the globe. Her portrayal of the tragic Violetta in La Traviata has been hailed as one of the greatest performances of the opera, blending vocal beauty with emotional depth. Similarly, her interpretation of the title role in Norma is often regarded as definitive, showcasing her vocal prowess and dramatic range.
In addition to her vocal talents, Netrebko has become a cultural icon, using her platform to bring opera to new audiences. She has performed in major opera houses around the world, and her collaborations with some of the most renowned conductors and composers in the opera world have cemented her place as one of the leading sopranos of her generation. Netrebko continues to push the boundaries of opera, always striving to bring new life to the art form and inspire future generations of singers.
10. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli, the Italian mezzo-soprano known for her incredible vocal agility and expressive artistry, has earned a reputation as one of the leading voices in opera today. Born in Rome in 1966, Bartoli’s passion for music was evident from an early age, and she quickly became known for her unique interpretations of both baroque and classical repertoire. Her devotion to uncovering and reviving forgotten gems of opera, particularly works by composers such as Vivaldi, Handel, and Gluck, has made her a trailblazer in the classical music world.
Bartoli’s voice is often described as a rare combination of flexibility and warmth, capable of navigating the most intricate vocal runs with precision and ease. Her mastery of coloratura has been showcased in operas like Semele and The Barber of Seville, where she brings a sense of vivacity and emotion to each aria. But what truly sets Bartoli apart is her deep understanding of the dramatic possibilities within music. Every note she sings is infused with meaning, and her performances are as much about storytelling as they are about vocal technique.
In addition to her vocal artistry, Bartoli’s innovative approach to concert programming has earned her a dedicated following. She often curates performances that highlight underappreciated works, bringing them to new audiences and revitalizing interest in the operatic repertoire. Her passion for opera and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of the art form continue to inspire musicians and opera lovers worldwide. Cecilia Bartoli remains a vital force in the world of classical music, revered for both her technical brilliance and her interpretive depth.
11. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, the Swedish soprano, was one of the greatest Wagnerian voices of the 20th century, known for her commanding stage presence and formidable vocal power. Born in 1918 in Västra Karup, Sweden, Nilsson quickly made a name for herself as one of the most dominant figures in opera, particularly in the dramatic roles of the German repertoire. Her voice, described as a “titanic” instrument, allowed her to project over large orchestras with ease, making her the perfect interpreter of the monumental roles in Wagner’s operas, such as Brünnhilde in Die Walküre and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde.
Nilsson’s voice was remarkable not only for its strength but for its beauty, capable of sustaining high notes with a purity that resonated in the largest opera houses of the world. Her performances were known for their emotional intensity, as she infused each role with both technical mastery and a deep understanding of the character. In her portrayal of Brünnhilde, Nilsson’s combination of power and vulnerability set a new standard for the role, and her interpretations continue to influence singers tackling Wagner’s demanding repertoire today.
Her collaboration with some of the greatest conductors of the time, such as Herbert von Karajan and Georg Solti, helped cement her place as one of the most important sopranos of her era. Nilsson’s performances at prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Bayreuth Festival in Germany, were lauded for their dramatic conviction and vocal authority. Even in the later years of her career, Nilsson’s voice remained a beacon of strength and beauty, and she remains a symbol of the power of the Wagnerian soprano voice.
Nilsson retired from the stage in the early 1980s, but her legacy as a titan of opera lives on. Her recordings continue to inspire opera lovers and singers, and she is remembered as one of the great dramatic sopranos of all time.
12. Jonas Kaufmann
Jonas Kaufmann, the German tenor, has become one of the most sought-after opera singers of his generation, renowned for his rich, baritone-like timbre and his dramatic range. Born in 1969 in Munich, Kaufmann’s career took off in the 1990s, and since then, he has become a dominant force in opera, performing across the world’s major opera houses and collaborating with top conductors and directors. His versatility allows him to tackle both lyrical and dramatic roles with equal finesse, moving effortlessly from the romantic roles of Puccini and Verdi to the more intense characters of Wagner.
Kaufmann’s voice is characterized by its warmth, depth, and richness, which allows him to deliver performances of rare emotional power. His portrayal of Cavaradossi in Tosca and Don José in Carmen are widely regarded as among the finest of the modern era, marked by an intensity and expressiveness that make his characters come alive. Kaufmann’s vocal technique is impeccable, able to navigate the most difficult passages with ease while maintaining a natural, organic sound that avoids the stiffness sometimes associated with modern operatic singing.
Beyond his vocal abilities, Kaufmann has earned acclaim for his stage presence. His performances are often marked by a compelling emotional connection to the character, with Kaufmann’s deep understanding of the roles he plays evident in every gesture and expression. His ability to inhabit characters fully, from the romantic hero to the tortured soul, has made him a favorite among both critics and audiences. Kaufmann continues to expand his repertoire, tackling new roles while consistently delivering performances that leave a lasting impression.
Jonas Kaufmann’s career is a testament to his dedication to the art of opera, and he remains one of the most important tenors of his generation, with an artistry that continues to captivate listeners worldwide.
13. Kiri Te Kanawa
Kiri Te Kanawa, the legendary New Zealand soprano, is renowned for her rich, warm voice and her graceful, charismatic stage presence. Born in 1944 in Auckland, New Zealand, Te Kanawa’s voice has been described as one of the most beautiful and versatile in the history of opera. Her rise to international fame began in the 1970s, and she quickly became one of the leading sopranos of her generation, known for her performances in operas such as The Marriage of Figaro, Tosca, and Don Giovanni.
Te Kanawa’s voice has a unique blend of warmth and clarity, making her particularly well-suited to the roles of the Mozart and Verdi repertoires. She was particularly beloved for her portrayal of Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni, a role that showcased her ability to combine vocal beauty with emotional depth. Te Kanawa’s portrayal of Pamina in The Magic Flute and Mimi in La Bohème are also considered among the defining performances of her career, with each character brought to life through the beauty and expressivity of her voice.
Beyond her vocal abilities, Te Kanawa’s charm and poise on stage made her a favorite with audiences. Her elegance and commanding presence, paired with her natural beauty, made her a star not only in the opera house but also in concert halls and on television. Throughout her career, Te Kanawa made a significant impact on the international opera scene, performing at iconic venues like the Royal Opera House in London, the Metropolitan Opera in New York, and the Sydney Opera House.
After retiring from the stage, Te Kanawa dedicated herself to mentoring young singers and supporting the development of new talent. She has left an indelible mark on the world of opera, not only through her own performances but through her commitment to passing on her knowledge and love for the art form to future generations. Kiri Te Kanawa’s legacy continues to inspire and influence opera singers worldwide.
14. Thomas Hampson
Thomas Hampson, the American baritone, is widely regarded as one of the finest voices in opera today. Born in 1955 in Elkhart, Indiana, Hampson’s voice is known for its rich, resonant tone and its remarkable versatility. His ability to interpret a wide range of roles, from the operatic classics of Verdi and Mozart to contemporary works, has made him a sought-after artist on the world’s leading opera stages. Hampson’s rich baritone voice is as suited to the dramatic roles of Verdi’s Rigoletto and Don Carlo as it is to the lyrical nuances of Figaro in The Marriage of Figaro or Eugene Onegin.
What truly sets Hampson apart is his ability to communicate emotion through his voice with unparalleled depth and sincerity. His performances are marked by a remarkable attention to detail, with each phrase shaped to express the innermost feelings of the character. Whether playing a tragic hero or a more lighthearted character, Hampson’s emotional connection to the role is palpable, drawing audiences into the world of the opera with every performance.
In addition to his operatic career, Hampson has become known as a dedicated advocate for classical music education and outreach. He has worked tirelessly to promote the art of opera to new audiences, performing in schools and communities across the United States. His passion for bringing classical music to people from all walks of life, combined with his own extraordinary artistry, has solidified his place as a beloved figure in the world of opera.
Thomas Hampson’s ongoing career and his contributions to the world of classical music have made him one of the most respected baritones of his generation, and his influence continues to be felt both on and off the stage.
15. Angela Gheorghiu
Angela Gheorghiu, the Romanian soprano, is known for her dramatic intensity, exceptional vocal talent, and commanding stage presence. Born in 1965 in Romania, Gheorghiu rose to international prominence in the 1990s, quickly becoming one of the most celebrated sopranos of her generation. Her performances in operas such as La Traviata and Carmen have earned her widespread acclaim, and her voice, with its lush, dark timbre, has captivated audiences worldwide.
Gheorghiu’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing sets her apart from many of her contemporaries. Whether she is portraying the tragic Violetta in La Traviata or the fiery Carmen, Gheorghiu infuses each role with a palpable emotional intensity, drawing the audience into the character’s world. Her voice, full of rich color and power, has been praised for its beauty and its ability to navigate the most challenging operatic passages with ease.
In addition to her vocal prowess, Gheorghiu is known for her dramatic interpretations. Her performances are marked by a commitment to the emotional journey of the characters she portrays, with every phrase delivering both vocal beauty and a deep understanding of the role. Gheorghiu’s portrayal of Carmen, in particular, is often cited as one of the most compelling of the modern era, combining vocal excellence with dramatic insight.
Angela Gheorghiu continues to perform at the highest level, and her influence on the opera world is undeniable. Her legacy as one of the great sopranos of her time will endure through her numerous recordings and the unforgettable performances she has given throughout her career.
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.
