Opera, a breathtaking fusion of music, drama, and emotion, has captivated audiences for centuries. Within this grand art form, the voices of extraordinary singers rise above the rest, leaving an indelible mark on the world of performing arts. In this article, we delve into the top 15 best opera singers of all time—icons whose powerful voices, exceptional technique, and profound artistry have shaped the genre and influenced generations of performers.
From the soaring heights of dramatic arias to the tender nuances of romantic duets, these singers have not only mastered their craft but have also redefined what it means to be a vocalist. They hail from various eras and backgrounds, each bringing their unique flair and interpretation to beloved operatic roles. Whether it’s the haunting beauty of a mezzo-soprano or the commanding presence of a tenor, these vocalists have transported audiences to realms of emotion and storytelling unlike any other.
Join us as we celebrate the legends who have graced the opera stage, exploring their remarkable careers and the unforgettable performances that solidified their places in history. Prepare to be inspired by their artistry and passion, as we count down the finest operatic voices of all time!
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti remains one of the most celebrated tenors in opera history, earning his title as “The King of the High Cs.” His commanding presence and remarkable vocal power made him a global phenomenon, transcending the opera world to become a pop culture icon. With a voice characterized by its warmth, clarity, and seemingly effortless reach, Pavarotti brought emotion and technical brilliance to every performance.
His signature roles, such as Rodolfo in La Bohème and the Duke in Rigoletto, showcased his exceptional ability to blend technical mastery with heartfelt expression. These performances were not just about hitting the right notes but conveying the depth and humanity of his characters. Beyond the opera house, Pavarotti expanded the art form’s audience by collaborating with artists like Bono and Sting, as well as participating in the legendary Three Tenors concerts.
Pavarotti’s philanthropy was equally inspiring, as he used his fame to support charitable causes, including organizing concerts for humanitarian relief. Singing his repertoire is both a technical challenge and an emotional journey, allowing performers to tap into the passion that defined his legacy. Whether you’re listening to his spine-tingling rendition of “Nessun Dorma” or exploring his lesser-known recordings, Pavarotti’s influence is undeniable. He not only brought opera to the masses but did so with a sincerity and grandeur that continue to inspire generations.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, revered as “La Divina,” redefined opera with her unparalleled artistry and dramatic intensity. More than a singer, Callas was a transformative force, breathing life into every character she portrayed. Her voice, known for its unique timbre and wide range, was a perfect blend of technical precision and emotional depth, making her performances unforgettable.
Callas’s iconic roles, such as Tosca and Norma, remain benchmarks for sopranos to this day. Her Tosca was a masterclass in drama and musicality, capturing the fiery determination and vulnerability of the character. Similarly, her interpretation of Norma brought extraordinary nuance to Bellini’s tragic heroine, showcasing both her vocal agility and her ability to convey profound emotion. Callas had a knack for making every role feel intensely personal, drawing audiences into the stories she told.
Despite challenges in her personal life, her passion for her craft never wavered, leaving an indelible mark on the opera world. Her recordings, many of which are considered definitive, continue to inspire and educate singers. Maria Callas was not just a soprano but a revolutionary figure who expanded the boundaries of what opera could achieve. Her legacy as both an artist and an innovator ensures her place as one of the greatest sopranos in history.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo’s extraordinary career spans more than six decades, and he stands as one of the most versatile and accomplished figures in the opera world. With a repertoire of over 150 roles, ranging from tenor to baritone, Domingo has brought depth and nuance to a vast array of characters. His legendary performances in Carmen as Don José and Otello as the tragic Moor have set standards for vocal and dramatic excellence.
What sets Domingo apart is his ability to embody his characters completely, blending his resonant voice with exceptional acting skills. His portrayal of Otello is particularly celebrated, showcasing his ability to capture the character’s complexity, from his noble authority to his devastating jealousy. Likewise, his Don José in Carmen is a vivid portrait of passion and despair.
Beyond his work as a singer, Domingo has made significant contributions to opera as a conductor, administrator, and mentor. His founding of Operalia, an international singing competition, has helped launch the careers of countless young artists. Domingo’s tireless dedication to his craft and his efforts to promote opera globally ensure his enduring influence. For fans and performers alike, Plácido Domingo represents the pinnacle of operatic artistry and commitment.
4. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is a soprano of extraordinary versatility and grace, known for her ability to bridge the worlds of classical and contemporary music. Her rich, velvety voice and impeccable technique have made her a favorite in roles like the Countess in The Marriage of Figaro and the title role in Rusalka. Fleming’s interpretation of Rusalka’s famous aria, “Song to the Moon,” is a hauntingly beautiful blend of lyricism and emotional depth.
Fleming’s artistry goes beyond the operatic stage, as she has successfully explored other genres, including jazz, musical theater, and film soundtracks. Her performance of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” at the 2021 inauguration and her work on soundtracks for films like The Shape of Water showcase her ability to connect with audiences across diverse platforms.
What makes Fleming particularly beloved is her commitment to making opera more accessible. She has been a prominent advocate for arts education and frequently participates in outreach programs to introduce new audiences to the beauty of classical music. Renée Fleming’s ability to balance technical brilliance with heartfelt expression has solidified her status as one of the most beloved sopranos of our time.
5. José Carreras
José Carreras, famed as one of the “Three Tenors,” is celebrated for his lyrical voice and passionate performances. His career has been defined by his ability to bring sensitivity and intensity to romantic leads in operas like La Traviata and Carmen. Carreras’s portrayal of Alfredo in La Traviata captures the character’s youthful ardor and heartbreak, while his Don José in Carmen brims with fiery passion and tragic vulnerability.
What sets Carreras apart is not just his vocal artistry but also his resilience. In the late 1980s, he overcame a life-threatening battle with leukemia, an experience that inspired him to establish the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation. His triumph over illness added a deeper emotional layer to his performances, endearing him to fans around the world.
Beyond his operatic work, Carreras’s participation in the historic Three Tenors concerts alongside Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo brought opera to a global audience. His warm, emotive voice and engaging stage presence continue to captivate listeners, ensuring his legacy as one of the most beloved tenors in operatic history.
6. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, hailed as one of the greatest dramatic sopranos of all time, left an indelible mark on the world of opera with her unparalleled power, precision, and stamina. Renowned for her exceptional performances in Wagnerian roles, Nilsson’s portrayal of Brünnhilde in Die Walküre and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde remains legendary. Her voice, characterized by its bright timbre and immense volume, was a perfect fit for the demanding repertoire of Wagner and Strauss.
Nilsson’s ability to sustain long, soaring vocal lines with effortless clarity set her apart in a genre that requires both technical mastery and emotional depth. She brought a commanding presence to the stage, embodying her characters with intensity and conviction. In addition to her Wagnerian triumphs, Nilsson excelled in roles like Turandot, where her steely high notes and dramatic interpretation earned her widespread acclaim.
Despite the formidable nature of her performances, Nilsson was known for her humility and humor, endearing her to colleagues and fans alike. Her recordings, including her definitive interpretations of The Ring Cycle, continue to serve as a benchmark for aspiring sopranos. Nilsson’s contributions to the art form were so profound that she is still celebrated today as the gold standard for dramatic soprano singing.
7. Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Dmitri Hvorostovsky, often called the “Siberian Tiger,” captivated audiences worldwide with his velvety baritone voice and magnetic stage presence. Known for his dashing looks and commanding performances, Hvorostovsky brought a unique blend of artistry and elegance to roles like Eugene Onegin in Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin and Count di Luna in Verdi’s Il Trovatore.
Hvorostovsky’s voice was celebrated for its warmth, richness, and extraordinary control, allowing him to convey deep emotional resonance in his performances. His portrayal of Eugene Onegin, in particular, became iconic, capturing the character’s complex mix of arrogance and vulnerability. Similarly, his Count di Luna exuded both power and passion, earning him accolades for his dynamic interpretations of Verdi’s works.
Beyond his operatic achievements, Hvorostovsky was a beloved recitalist, performing Russian art songs with unmatched authenticity and sensitivity. Despite battling brain cancer later in life, he continued to perform with unwavering courage, leaving audiences in awe of his resilience and artistry. Dmitri Hvorostovsky’s legacy is one of exceptional talent and deep humanity, ensuring his place among the greats of operatic history.
8. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was celebrated for her extraordinary vocal agility, crystalline high notes, and impeccable technique. Her mastery of bel canto repertoire, including roles in Lucia di Lammermoor, Norma, and The Tales of Hoffmann, redefined the genre and cemented her status as one of the most remarkable sopranos of all time.
Sutherland’s portrayal of Lucia in Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor is legendary, with her flawless execution of the iconic “mad scene” showcasing her vocal dexterity and emotional depth. Her collaboration with conductor Richard Bonynge, who was also her husband, brought forth some of the most memorable performances and recordings in opera history. Together, they revived forgotten operatic works, breathing new life into the bel canto tradition.
What made Sutherland truly exceptional was her ability to combine technical brilliance with heartfelt expression, making even the most challenging arias sound effortless. Her artistry continues to inspire countless singers, and her recordings remain essential listening for anyone passionate about opera. Joan Sutherland’s contributions to the art form are unparalleled, securing her place as a true operatic legend.
9. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, often dubbed “The Prince of Tenors,” was renowned for his thrilling voice, dramatic intensity, and charismatic stage presence. With a tenor voice that combined power, beauty, and passion, Corelli excelled in roles that demanded both technical skill and emotional depth. His performances as Calaf in Turandot and Don José in Carmen remain among the most celebrated in opera history.
Corelli’s Calaf was electrifying, with his rendition of “Nessun Dorma” leaving audiences spellbound. His ability to convey the character’s determination and vulnerability brought a new dimension to the role. Similarly, his Don José captured the tragic arc of a man consumed by love and jealousy, with Corelli’s impassioned singing adding layers of complexity to the character.
Offstage, Corelli was known for his meticulous approach to his craft, often rehearsing tirelessly to perfect his performances. His voice, with its thrilling high notes and dramatic phrasing, continues to be a benchmark for tenors aspiring to tackle the demanding repertoire he mastered. Franco Corelli’s legacy is one of unmatched artistry and magnetism, ensuring his place among the operatic greats.
10. Renata Tebaldi
Renata Tebaldi, celebrated for her warm and expressive soprano, remains one of the most beloved figures in opera history. Known for her lush tone and emotional sincerity, Tebaldi brought a rare beauty to her roles, including Aida in Verdi’s Aida and Cio-Cio-San in Puccini’s Madama Butterfly. Her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability made her interpretations unforgettable.
Tebaldi’s Aida was a masterful blend of regal dignity and heartfelt emotion, capturing the character’s internal struggle with extraordinary sensitivity. Her Cio-Cio-San, on the other hand, was a poignant portrayal of innocence and devotion, with Tebaldi’s voice perfectly conveying the character’s joy and despair. These performances highlighted her ability to connect deeply with her characters and her audience.
In addition to her operatic triumphs, Tebaldi was admired for her gracious demeanor and humility, earning the affection of fans and colleagues alike. Her rivalry with Maria Callas, though often exaggerated by the press, only served to elevate both singers’ profiles and underscore their unique artistry. Renata Tebaldi’s legacy endures as a symbol of elegance, artistry, and heartfelt expression in opera.
11. Carlo Bergonzi
Carlo Bergonzi, regarded as one of the finest lyric tenors of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on the operatic world with his impeccable technique, refined phrasing, and heartfelt interpretations. Specializing in the works of Verdi, Bergonzi’s performances in roles such as Alfredo in La Traviata and the Duke in Rigoletto are revered for their emotional depth and vocal mastery.
What set Bergonzi apart was his exceptional musicianship and unwavering dedication to the nuances of the Italian operatic tradition. His clear, warm timbre and seamless legato allowed him to bring out the beauty in even the most challenging arias. As Alfredo, Bergonzi’s portrayal of youthful passion and eventual heartbreak was both captivating and deeply moving, while his Duke was imbued with charm and arrogance, making the character’s moral flaws even more striking.
Offstage, Bergonzi was a humble and disciplined artist, known for his tireless work ethic and respect for his craft. He continued to perform well into his later years, his voice retaining its characteristic elegance and purity. His many recordings remain a cornerstone of operatic discography, particularly his Verdi arias, which are often considered definitive interpretations. Carlo Bergonzi’s artistry exemplified a balance of technical perfection and genuine emotion, earning him a permanent place in the pantheon of operatic legends.
12. Kristine Opolais
Kristine Opolais has emerged as one of the most compelling sopranos of her generation, known for her dramatic intensity, stunning vocal technique, and ability to breathe fresh life into classic roles. Her performances in Madama Butterfly and La Bohème are particularly celebrated, showcasing her unique ability to balance vulnerability and strength.
In Madama Butterfly, Opolais’s portrayal of Cio-Cio-San is heart-wrenching, capturing the innocence and unwavering devotion of the character with striking authenticity. Her voice, with its rich, lyrical quality, conveys the emotional turmoil of a young woman abandoned by love, leaving audiences deeply moved. Similarly, her performance as Mimì in La Bohème is infused with warmth and fragility, making her portrayal one of the most poignant in contemporary opera.
Beyond her work on stage, Opolais is admired for her dedication to making opera more accessible and relevant to modern audiences. Her willingness to take creative risks, both in her choice of roles and her approach to performance, has solidified her reputation as a bold and innovative artist. As she continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Kristine Opolais is establishing herself as a transformative figure in the opera world.
13. Thomas Hampson
Thomas Hampson, a baritone of remarkable versatility and charisma, has earned acclaim for his deep interpretations of both operatic roles and concert repertoire. Renowned for his performances in Don Giovanni and The Marriage of Figaro, Hampson’s artistry is characterized by a profound understanding of character and text.
As Don Giovanni, Hampson masterfully captures the charm and darkness of the infamous seducer, bringing complexity and nuance to a role often portrayed as one-dimensional. His Figaro, on the other hand, is imbued with wit and vitality, making his portrayal both engaging and memorable. Hampson’s ability to combine vocal brilliance with compelling stage presence has made him a favorite among opera audiences worldwide.
Beyond the stage, Hampson is a passionate advocate for the arts, particularly American song. His extensive work in preserving and promoting the art song tradition has earned him numerous accolades and a dedicated following. His commitment to education and outreach has further enriched his legacy, inspiring a new generation of performers. Thomas Hampson’s career is a testament to the power of music to connect and uplift, ensuring his enduring influence in the operatic and classical music worlds.
14. Angela Gheorghiu
Angela Gheorghiu, one of the most celebrated sopranos of her era, is renowned for her lush, dramatic voice and magnetic stage presence. Her interpretations of iconic roles such as Violetta in La Traviata and Tosca in Puccini’s Tosca are lauded for their emotional intensity and vocal brilliance.
As Violetta, Gheorghiu brings both vulnerability and resilience to the role, her shimmering voice perfectly capturing the character’s tragic arc. Her Tosca is equally compelling, filled with fiery passion and deep emotional resonance. Gheorghiu’s ability to fully inhabit her characters, combined with her exquisite vocal control, has earned her widespread acclaim and a devoted following.
Offstage, Gheorghiu’s glamour and charisma have made her a true operatic icon, often described as the ultimate diva in the best sense of the word. She has collaborated with some of the world’s leading conductors and orchestras, further solidifying her reputation as one of the preeminent sopranos of her time. Angela Gheorghiu’s artistry and passion for opera continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, the Welsh bass-baritone with an unmatched ability to blend power and charm, has become one of the most beloved figures in the opera world. Renowned for his versatility, Terfel has excelled in roles ranging from the comedic Figaro in The Marriage of Figaro to the menacing Scarpia in Tosca.
As Figaro, Terfel’s warm, resonant voice and playful stage presence bring a delightful energy to the role, making him a standout in Mozart’s repertoire. Conversely, his portrayal of Scarpia is chilling, filled with dramatic intensity and vocal authority. This dual ability to excel in both comedic and villainous roles speaks to Terfel’s remarkable range as a performer.
Beyond opera, Terfel is a celebrated interpreter of traditional Welsh music and musical theater, showcasing his versatility and deep connection to his cultural roots. His engaging personality and down-to-earth demeanor have endeared him to audiences and colleagues alike. With his extraordinary talent and boundless charisma, Bryn Terfel continues to be a towering presence in the world of classical music and opera.
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.
