Opera, a mesmerizing blend of music, drama, and artistry, has captivated audiences for centuries. At the heart of this grand tradition are the opera singers—remarkable artists whose voices soar to breathtaking heights, conveying profound emotions and transporting us to other worlds. In this article, we journey through the annals of operatic history to celebrate the top 15 best opera singers of all time. From the legendary Luciano Pavarotti, whose tenor voice became synonymous with passion and power, to the enigmatic Maria Callas, who redefined the role of the diva, these vocal giants have left an indelible mark on the art form.
Each singer on our list not only excelled in technique but also possessed the unique ability to connect with audiences, making their performances unforgettable. Whether through heart-wrenching arias or thrilling duets, they have shaped the landscape of opera, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike. Join us as we explore their remarkable careers, signature roles, and the legacies they continue to uphold. Prepare to be enthralled by the stories of these extraordinary talents who have turned the stage into a realm of magic and emotion, forever changing the way we experience opera.
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors of all time, revolutionized opera by bringing it into the mainstream with his exceptional voice and undeniable stage presence. Born in Modena, Italy, in 1935, Pavarotti’s powerful tenor voice captivated audiences worldwide. His career skyrocketed with memorable roles in operas like La Bohème as Rodolfo and Turandot as Calaf, with his rendition of “Nessun dorma” becoming legendary. Pavarotti’s ability to hit soaring high notes with ease while conveying deep emotion made him stand out from his contemporaries. While firmly rooted in classical opera, Pavarotti’s dedication to making opera more accessible led him to collaborate with some of the world’s biggest pop stars, like Bono, Sting, and Elton John, blurring the lines between genres and introducing opera to a broader audience. These cross-genre collaborations were groundbreaking, showing the power of music to unite people from different walks of life. Pavarotti’s passion for sharing his love of opera extended beyond the stage. He was instrumental in founding the Pavarotti & Friends charity concert series, which raised funds for children in need, showcasing not just his musical brilliance but his humanity as well. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring singers across genres, and his commitment to accessible music, humanitarian efforts, and unmatched vocal talent will forever leave a lasting imprint on the world of opera. Pavarotti’s voice was a gift to the world, and his influence endures, transcending the boundaries of classical music to inspire generations of artists.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, often referred to as “La Divina” (The Divine), is one of the most influential and iconic figures in opera. Born in New York City in 1923 to Greek immigrant parents, Callas’s vocal talent was apparent from an early age, and she quickly made a name for herself in the opera world with her unparalleled voice and intense emotional expression. Callas’s voice was unlike any other—rich in color, dramatic in depth, and capable of both power and sweetness. She became known for her ability to transform herself completely into the characters she portrayed. Her performances in operas like Tosca and Carmen remain benchmarks for aspiring sopranos, with critics and audiences alike lauding her ability to combine technical precision with dramatic intensity. Callas was not just a singer but a performer who brought a level of emotional depth and authenticity to her roles that few could match. However, her personal life often overshadowed her professional achievements, especially her turbulent relationships and the toll her career took on her health. Despite these struggles, Callas remained dedicated to her craft, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy in opera. Her interpretations of works like La Traviata and Norma have set a standard for operatic performance, with many singers seeking to emulate her emotional approach and vocal style. Though her life was marked by drama, Callas’s artistry transcended personal hardship, and her legacy as one of the greatest sopranos in history continues to inspire audiences and opera singers around the world.
3. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso, the first true superstar of opera, helped elevate the art form to a global audience with his rich, emotive tenor voice. Born in Naples, Italy, in 1873, Caruso’s career took flight when he performed at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, where his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence quickly made him a household name. Caruso was one of the first opera singers to have his voice captured on recordings, and these early recordings are still cherished by music lovers today. His renditions of iconic operatic arias, including those from Rigoletto and La Bohème, showcased his technical prowess and his ability to convey deep emotion through song. Caruso’s voice was distinctive for its warmth and richness, qualities that allowed him to take on both heroic and lyrical roles with ease. His influence was not just limited to the opera stage; his recordings brought opera to millions of people who may never have attended a live performance, helping to broaden the audience for the art form. Caruso’s performances were marked by his deep commitment to character and storytelling, making each aria not just a vocal exercise but a journey into the soul of the character. His legacy continues to inspire generations of singers, and his recordings remain a gold standard for those who wish to learn from one of opera’s most beloved voices. Caruso’s impact on the world of opera cannot be overstated, as he set the stage for future generations of singers to follow in his footsteps, ensuring that opera would remain relevant and beloved for generations to come.
4. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was an Australian soprano who brought a fresh vitality to the bel canto tradition, revolutionizing the operatic world with her extraordinary voice and impeccable technique. Born in Sydney in 1926, Sutherland’s vocal abilities were extraordinary, and her voice was known for its immense range, agility, and richness. She was renowned for her performances in works by Italian opera composers like Donizetti and Bellini, and her interpretations of operas such as Lucia di Lammermoor and Norma are considered some of the most remarkable in operatic history. Sutherland was particularly famous for her mastery of coloratura soprano roles—those that require a high degree of vocal agility and precision. Her ability to execute intricate vocal passages with apparent ease made her the perfect artist for such roles, and her performances left audiences awestruck. Sutherland’s contribution to opera was not just technical, but also artistic. She revived and breathed new life into forgotten works by operatic masters, ensuring that they remained a vital part of the repertoire. Her dedication to preserving the bel canto style and her passion for operatic artistry made her a beloved figure in the world of opera. Sutherland’s warmth and generosity offstage, coupled with her legendary performances, made her not only a highly respected artist but also a cherished figure among her fans and peers. Her influence is still felt today, as opera singers continue to look to her as a model for vocal excellence, artistry, and dedication to the craft.
5. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is one of the most versatile and accomplished figures in the world of opera, known not only for his incredible baritone voice but also for his multifaceted contributions as a conductor and artistic director. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo’s career spans more than five decades, and throughout that time, he has performed an astonishing array of roles in operas ranging from Otello to Carmen. His voice is revered for its warmth and richness, and his performances are marked by an ability to convey deep emotion and a profound understanding of character. Domingo’s voice alone is enough to captivate audiences, but his ability to bring depth and nuance to each role he performs elevates his performances to the next level. Over the years, Domingo has also taken on significant roles outside of singing, contributing to the development of the opera world as a conductor and an artistic director. He has made great strides in fostering new talent, and his work in music education continues to impact the operatic community. Domingo has performed in the most prestigious opera houses around the world, and his impact on the global opera scene is immeasurable. His dedication to music, his versatility as an artist, and his commitment to enriching the operatic tradition have made him one of the most beloved figures in classical music. Even now, as he continues to perform and mentor the next generation of artists, Domingo’s legacy is firmly cemented as one of opera’s greatest ambassadors.
6. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, one of the most celebrated American sopranos of her generation, has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her lush, expressive voice and powerful stage presence. Born in Indiana in 1959, Fleming’s rise to fame came through her stellar performances in operas such as Thais and Rusalka, where her ability to convey deep emotion through her singing set her apart from her peers. Known for her vocal warmth and versatility, Fleming’s voice has a remarkable ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from vulnerability to passion, making her an ideal interpreter of both dramatic and lyrical roles. Beyond her operatic work, Fleming has also found success in the world of crossover music, performing in concert halls across the globe and collaborating with artists in various genres. This ability to bridge the gap between opera and popular music has only increased her appeal, introducing opera to new audiences and showcasing her versatility as an artist. Fleming’s impressive list of accolades includes multiple Grammy Awards, and her performances continue to inspire audiences and singers alike. Her commitment to expanding the operatic repertoire, combined with her dedication to making opera more accessible, has solidified her place as one of the most influential sopranos of her generation. Beyond her singing, Fleming’s commitment to music education and the arts ensures that her legacy will continue for years to come, as she helps inspire the next generation of opera stars. With each performance, Renée Fleming proves that her artistry and passion for music are as boundless as her remarkable voice.
7. Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Dmitri Hvorostovsky, the iconic Russian baritone, captivated audiences around the world with his rich, velvety voice and commanding stage presence. Born in Siberia in 1962, Hvorostovsky’s rise to international fame was rapid. His breakthrough came when he won the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition in 1989, and from that moment, he became a beloved figure in the operatic world. Hvorostovsky’s voice, renowned for its deep, resonant timbre, allowed him to excel in a variety of operatic roles, from the tragic Eugene Onegin to the villainous Iago in Otello. His ability to convey complex emotions with his voice, combined with his striking good looks and magnetic presence on stage, made him a star in some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. Hvorostovsky’s unique vocal technique, honed through years of training, allowed him to navigate both the dramatic and lyrical demands of opera with ease. In later years, he continued to perform despite his battle with a serious illness, which only endeared him further to his fans. His unwavering dedication to his craft was an inspiration to many, proving that true artistry transcends even the greatest personal challenges. Hvorostovsky’s contributions to the operatic world go beyond just his performances; he also worked as an educator, passing on his knowledge and passion to the next generation of singers. His legacy remains alive through his recordings, performances, and the countless artists he mentored. Dmitri Hvorostovsky’s name is forever etched in the annals of opera history, and his incredible voice continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
8. Anna Netrebko
Anna Netrebko, the Russian soprano, is one of the most powerful and mesmerizing voices of our time, a true force in the world of opera. Born in Krasnodar, Russia, in 1971, Netrebko quickly rose to stardom thanks to her stunning voice and magnetic stage presence. Her career trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric, with performances in the most prestigious opera houses in the world. From La Traviata to Don Giovanni, Netrebko has portrayed some of the most iconic roles in the operatic repertoire, earning critical acclaim for her passionate interpretations and breathtaking vocal technique. Known for her radiant voice, which combines warmth with a rich, dramatic resonance, Netrebko has an innate ability to captivate audiences with the emotional depth she brings to her roles. Her performances are not just about singing; they are a celebration of the human experience, filled with intense emotion and drama. Netrebko’s influence extends beyond her technical skill; she is a modern ambassador for opera, bridging the gap between traditional works and contemporary audiences. She has helped to redefine the role of the opera diva, showing that it’s possible to be both a brilliant artist and an approachable, relatable figure. In addition to her operatic roles, Netrebko has also made waves with her forays into concert music, performing works across a variety of genres and expanding her audience even further. Her achievements are numerous, including Grammy nominations and numerous awards, and her voice continues to be a beacon of excellence in the world of opera. As she continues to perform and innovate, Anna Netrebko remains one of the most influential figures in opera today.
9. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, the legendary Swedish soprano, was one of the most powerful voices in the history of opera. Born in 1918 in the small town of Växjö, Nilsson’s extraordinary vocal abilities and commanding stage presence quickly made her a superstar in the operatic world. Her voice, with its immense power and remarkable clarity, was ideal for the dramatic roles of the Wagnerian repertoire, particularly as Brünnhilde in Der Ring des Nibelungen. Nilsson’s performances in Wagner’s operas are the stuff of legend, and she is often regarded as the definitive interpreter of some of the composer’s most demanding roles. Her ability to project her voice over massive orchestras and deliver complex vocal passages with impeccable technique made her the go-to soprano for some of the most challenging operatic works. Nilsson’s work was not limited to Wagner, however; she was equally at home in operas by Strauss and Puccini, and her interpretations of roles like Turandot and Salome are revered by critics and fans alike. Nilsson’s voice was known for its range and stamina, and she possessed a rare combination of power and grace that allowed her to shine in both large, dramatic roles and more intimate parts. Her contributions to the world of opera were immeasurable, and she remains an inspiration for opera singers, particularly those aspiring to take on the most demanding and heroic roles. Nilsson’s legacy as one of the greatest dramatic sopranos in history continues to resonate in the world of opera, and her recordings continue to be a reference for vocalists striving to emulate her incredible power and technique.
10. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, the Italian tenor known for his heroic voice and dramatic flair, was one of the most celebrated and admired singers of the 20th century. Born in Ancona, Italy, in 1921, Corelli’s powerful, vibrant voice and commanding presence on stage made him a natural choice for the heroic roles that became his trademark. His tenor voice was marked by its ringing high notes, rich tone, and robust power, which made him a favorite in roles such as Turandot’s Calaf and Aida’s Radames. Corelli’s vocal technique allowed him to sing with both intensity and nuance, and his interpretations of roles from the Italian and French repertoires remain some of the most celebrated in operatic history. He was known for his ability to soar through high notes with apparent ease, but it was his passion and dramatic presence that truly set him apart. Corelli’s commitment to vocal purity and his ability to project both the beauty of the voice and the emotion of the character made him an extraordinary artist. Though his career was marked by the intense demands of his repertoire, Corelli’s performances were always filled with a sense of thrilling excitement, whether he was playing a romantic lead or a tragic hero. His influence on the tenor repertoire is still felt today, and his legacy endures in the generations of singers who have drawn inspiration from his artistry. Franco Corelli’s contributions to opera continue to be celebrated, and his voice remains an iconic example of the power and beauty of the tenor voice.
11. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli, the Italian mezzo-soprano, is a truly unique and captivating voice in the world of opera. Born in Rome in 1966, Bartoli’s extraordinary vocal agility and interpretive depth have set her apart as one of the most exciting and versatile singers of her generation. She has brought a fresh perspective to many operatic roles, particularly in the works of Mozart and Rossini, with her dynamic performances showcasing a technical brilliance that is rarely matched. Bartoli’s voice is known for its stunning flexibility, with her ability to navigate complex vocal lines and execute fast runs with precision and ease. But it’s not just her technical skill that makes her special—Bartoli is also known for her ability to connect with her audience through her expressive, heartfelt performances. Her passion for music has led her to explore lesser-known operas and composers, and she is dedicated to bringing new works to the stage. Bartoli’s interpretation of roles is marked by an intensity that draws the audience into the emotional core of the music, creating a deep, personal connection with each performance. Her contributions to the operatic world go beyond just her singing; she has also played a key role in reviving interest in Baroque music and has helped to bring a new generation of listeners to classical opera. With her extensive discography, numerous awards, and tireless dedication to her craft, Cecilia Bartoli has solidified her place as one of the most influential and captivating voices in opera today.
12. Thomas Hampson
Thomas Hampson, the American baritone, is one of the most respected and versatile figures in the world of opera. Born in 1955, Hampson’s career spans a wide range of operatic and concert repertoire, and he is known for his rich, resonant voice and profound artistry. Hampson’s ability to sing both dramatic and lyrical roles with equal skill has made him a favorite of audiences around the world. His interpretations of works by composers like Verdi and Mahler are particularly renowned, and his performances of operas like Rigoletto and The Merry Widow are celebrated for their depth and nuance. But Hampson’s artistry goes beyond just his voice; he is also deeply committed to music education and outreach. He has worked tirelessly to bring opera and classical music to new audiences, and his dedication to sharing the beauty of the art form has made a significant impact on the operatic community. Hampson’s ability to convey emotion through his voice and his dedication to his craft have made him a beloved figure in the world of opera. He has inspired generations of singers, and his passion for the art form continues to shine through in each of his performances. With a career that spans decades, Thomas Hampson’s legacy as a versatile artist and advocate for the arts is firmly established, and his influence will continue to inspire opera lovers and singers for generations to come.
13. Kiri Te Kanawa
Kiri Te Kanawa, the renowned New Zealand soprano, is celebrated for her magnificent voice and effortless grace on stage. Born in 1944 in Gisborne, New Zealand, Te Kanawa’s journey to international fame is a testament to her extraordinary vocal abilities and natural charisma. She first gained worldwide attention in 1971 when she made her debut at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, and from there, her career soared. With her rich, golden tone and perfect technique, Te Kanawa quickly became one of the most beloved sopranos of the late 20th century. Her voice, both warm and powerful, allowed her to excel in a wide range of roles, from the romantic leads in operas like The Marriage of Figaro and Madama Butterfly to the dramatic demands of Otello. Te Kanawa’s vocal precision and lyrical expression made her a master at portraying the emotional depth of the characters she portrayed. Her interpretations were marked by a sense of elegance, which became a signature of her performances. Beyond her operatic successes, Te Kanawa’s contributions to music and the arts have been vast. She has been a passionate advocate for young artists, often mentoring aspiring singers and working to bring attention to emerging talent. Her legacy is not just about her own remarkable achievements but also the impact she has had on the generations of musicians she has inspired. Kiri Te Kanawa’s contributions to opera have left an indelible mark, and her artistry continues to be a source of inspiration for singers and music lovers alike.
14. Angela Gheorghiu
Angela Gheorghiu, the celebrated Romanian soprano, is known for her stunning vocal technique and powerful stage presence. Born in 1965 in Romania, Gheorghiu rose to fame in the 1990s with her breathtaking performances in some of the most iconic operatic roles. She is particularly revered for her portrayals of characters in La Bohème and Tosca, where her emotional depth and exquisite voice combine to create performances that resonate long after the curtain falls. Gheorghiu’s voice is characterized by its rich, full-bodied timbre, and her ability to effortlessly navigate both the delicate and dramatic moments of a piece makes her one of the most versatile sopranos in the world. Her commitment to portraying the emotional core of the characters she sings has earned her critical acclaim and a loyal following. What sets Gheorghiu apart is her fearless approach to each role—her performances are often described as bold and captivating, yet always deeply rooted in musicality and expressive detail. Her vocal technique, honed through years of study, allows her to achieve a seamless blend of power and lyricism, which is evident in her performances across a wide range of operatic styles. Angela Gheorghiu has not only conquered the traditional operatic canon but has also introduced new roles and works to the stage, expanding the possibilities for future generations of opera singers. With an illustrious career spanning decades, Gheorghiu continues to be a major figure in opera, one whose contributions to the art form will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
15. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, the Welsh bass-baritone, is known for his powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, which have made him one of the most admired and respected opera singers of his generation. Born in 1965 in Wales, Terfel’s rise to international prominence was swift, and he has since become a beloved figure in both the opera world and beyond. His voice, with its rich, resonant quality and remarkable versatility, allows him to excel in a wide range of roles, from the comic and charming to the dark and dramatic. Terfel’s performances in operas like The Magic Flute, Falstaff, and Don Giovanni have been met with critical acclaim, with his ability to navigate both the humor and pathos of his roles making him a standout performer. What truly distinguishes Terfel is his remarkable vocal range and the warmth with which he brings his characters to life. His bass-baritone voice possesses an almost effortless richness that makes him a favorite among audiences, and his dramatic interpretations are infused with a deep understanding of the human condition. Terfel’s warmth and charm on stage are mirrored by his dedication to education and outreach, particularly in the field of music education. He has worked to engage new audiences with opera, making the art form accessible to people of all backgrounds. Terfel’s generosity, both on and off the stage, has solidified his status as one of the most beloved figures in the opera world today. With a career that spans more than three decades, Bryn Terfel’s contributions to opera continue to inspire audiences and future generations of singers alike.
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.
