Opera, the grand tapestry of music and drama, has captivated audiences for centuries, showcasing the extraordinary talents of its most illustrious performers. Among them, a select group of opera singers has transcended mere fame to become legends in their own right, leaving an indelible mark on the art form. From the soaring highs of a soprano’s voice to the deep, resonant tones of a bass, these artists have not only defined their eras but also shaped the future of opera.
In this article, we embark on a thrilling journey through time to celebrate the top 15 best opera singers of all time. Each of these remarkable vocalists has brought unique artistry, unparalleled skill, and profound passion to the stage, enchanting audiences across the globe. Their performances have stirred emotions, ignited passions, and transformed the very essence of opera.
Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we explore the lives and legacies of these extraordinary talents. Discover the stories behind their rise to fame, their most iconic roles, and the unforgettable moments that solidified their status as operatic royalty. Prepare to be inspired by the voices that have forever changed the landscape of this timeless art!
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti, the world-renowned tenor from Modena, Italy, was much more than an opera singer—he was a global ambassador for vocal artistry. With a voice that soared effortlessly to dazzling climaxes, Pavarotti brought warmth, clarity, and emotional nuance to every role he portrayed. He was particularly beloved for his interpretation of Rodolfo in *La Bohème*, infusing the role with youthful passion and heartbreak. Yet what truly set him apart was his ability to transcend the opera house. His “Three Tenors” performances alongside Plácido Domingo and José Carreras broke new ground, drawing millions into the magic of classical music. Pavarotti’s charismatic personality—his booming laughter, his joyful grin—made him approachable, and his collaborations with pop stars expanded opera’s reach. Whether singing Italian arias or crossover duets, he embodied both technical mastery and emotional generosity. For many, Pavarotti was the gateway into opera, the artist who made it feel celebratory, accessible, and deeply human. Even today, his recordings continue to inspire aspiring singers and delight music lovers around the world. His legacy remains a benchmark for vocal excellence and the universal power of a beautiful voice.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas, affectionately called “La Divina,” was a commanding presence in 20th‑century opera. With her voice imbued with dramatic color and emotional intensity, she redefined what it meant to inhabit a character onstage. In operas like *Tosca* and *Norma*, Callas channeled raw vulnerability, fierce passion, and unshakeable determination—making each role feel viscerally alive. Her vocal timbre was unique: capable of tender lyricism one moment and searing intensity the next. But her impact went far beyond sound—it was her interpretive genius, her seamless fusion of voice, text, and drama, that made audiences lean in. Callas became a transformative figure, taking operatic storytelling to new heights. Despite personal and professional challenges, her artistic dedication never wavered. She brought opera into the spotlight as both high art and deeply emotional human experience. Her recorded performances remain definitive and continue to inspire vocalists who seek to blend technique with truth. Maria Callas wasn’t just a singer—she was an icon of artistic integrity, emotional honesty, and fearless expression.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo, the Spanish tenor-turned-conductor, is celebrated for both his extraordinary vocal talent and his unwavering commitment to nurturing emerging artists. With a repertoire spanning over 150 roles, he demonstrated remarkable adaptability—from Don José’s fiery intensity in *Carmen* to the lyrical grace of the Duke in *Rigoletto*. His voice carried not only power and warmth but also nuance, enabling deeply human interpretations of complex characters. Domingo’s influence extends beyond performance: he co-founded Operalia in 1993, a global competition that remains a vital launching pad for young opera singers. He also served as an administrator and director at major opera houses, shaping the future of the art form. His near-five-decade career has been defined by vocal resilience, artistic vision, and a genuine desire to pass the torch. Whether leading a dramatic aria or mentoring rising stars, Domingo embodied the opera musician as both master artist and compassionate leader. His legacy is defined by versatility, mentorship, and sustained excellence.
4. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is an American soprano celebrated for her luminous tone, elegant phrasing, and emotionally connective performances. Her portrayal of the Countess in *The Marriage of Figaro* is widely praised for its combination of vocal refinement and expressive depth. Fleming seamlessly conveys musical beauty without sacrificing emotional authenticity—a rare blend that draws audiences into the character’s inner world. Equally at ease singing Verdi, Strauss, or contemporary art songs, she has also explored jazz, Broadway, and popular song in crossover projects. Her warm, honey-like voice and natural elegance have made her a favorite in both traditional opera houses and modern concert venues. Beyond the stage, Fleming is an advocate for arts education and music therapy; she regularly gives masterclasses, supports emerging talent, and promotes the healing power of the arts. Her public presence reflects her artistry: gracious, thoughtful, and deeply engaged. Renée Fleming has not only shaped how we hear soprano roles today but also raised what opera can be: richly emotional, broadly musical, and deeply human.
5. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, the great Italian tenor, was revered for his heroic voice and powerful stage magnetism. He brought operatic roles like Calàf in *Turandot* and Radamès in *Aida* to life with a sound that was bold, dramatic, and emotionally expressive. Corelli’s vocal presence was characterized by brilliant top notes and an intensity that could fill even the largest opera houses. But he was more than just volume—he combined technical mastery with passionate phrasing, delivering arias with a magnetic blend of fire and tenderness. His dramatic flair and commanding charisma made each performance feel like an event. Audiences and critics alike admired not just his voice but his emotional authenticity: Corelli truly believed in the characters he portrayed, and that belief shone through. Though his career was relatively shorter than some of his contemporaries, his recordings remain benchmarks for heroic tenor literature. To hear Corelli is to experience operatic drama at its most thrilling—virtuosity in service of storytelling. His legacy remains as a standard of vocal power, emotional engagement, and unforgettable artistry in opera.
6. Jessye Norman
Jessye Norman was a towering figure in the world of opera—a soprano of immense power, dignity, and expressive range. Born in Georgia, USA, she brought an unmistakable presence to the stage, combining technical brilliance with profound emotional intelligence. Her voice, richly hued and capable of both soaring grandeur and intimate subtlety, allowed her to master a diverse repertoire, from Wagnerian heroines to French mélodie and spirituals. Norman was not just a singer; she was a storyteller who conveyed deep human truths through her performances. Her interpretations of roles like Sieglinde and Aida were revered for their depth and intensity, while her concert work—particularly her renditions of sacred music and African-American spirituals—demonstrated her belief in music as a force for healing and connection. Offstage, she was a vocal advocate for arts education and civil rights, using her platform to uplift others and promote cultural understanding. Jessye Norman’s artistry was matched by her elegance, intellect, and humanitarian spirit. She didn’t just sing music—she elevated it, transformed it, and gave it soul. Her legacy continues to resonate as a symbol of excellence, grace, and fearless expression in the world of classical music.
7. Jussi Björling
Jussi Björling, the legendary Swedish tenor, is remembered as one of the most naturally gifted operatic voices of the 20th century. Known for his impeccable technique, effortless phrasing, and unmistakable tone, he brought lyric beauty and noble restraint to the Italian and French operatic repertoire. His interpretations of roles like Rodolfo in *La Bohème* and Don José in *Carmen* remain benchmarks for clarity, sincerity, and vocal control. What set Björling apart was his ability to make the most demanding arias sound unforced and pure—his voice floated with grace, yet carried deep emotional weight. Though he performed with major opera houses around the world, he remained somewhat of a private figure, more focused on the music than the spotlight. His recordings are still studied by singers today for their balance of vocal ease and expressive depth. Björling’s artistry was not dramatic in the theatrical sense, but in the way it conveyed feeling with quiet intensity and unwavering refinement. He sang with the heart of a poet, and his voice continues to inspire both listeners and performers who seek beauty without exaggeration and emotion without excess.
8. Leontyne Price
Leontyne Price broke barriers as one of the first African-American opera singers to achieve international stardom, and she did so with a voice of unmatched warmth, power, and elegance. Her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in 1961 as Leonora in *Il Trovatore* was a groundbreaking moment, not just artistically but historically. Price’s voice was a luscious, velvet-toned instrument that could move effortlessly from serene beauty to dramatic fervor. Her portrayals of Verdi heroines—Aida, Tosca, and Amelia—were definitive, combining regal stage presence with deeply personal emotion. Beyond the technical beauty of her voice, Price brought dignity, poise, and heartfelt expression to every performance. Her achievements opened doors for generations of Black classical musicians and reshaped what the operatic stage could look like. Offstage, she remained fiercely private, letting her music speak for itself. And speak it did—with conviction, grace, and soul. Leontyne Price is not only remembered for her stellar musicianship but also as a pioneer who transformed opera through courage, excellence, and extraordinary artistry.
9. Enrico Caruso
Enrico Caruso was the first true superstar of opera and a pioneer in recorded music. Born in Naples, Caruso possessed a voice that was golden, powerful, and instantly recognizable. At a time when opera was still largely confined to the elite, Caruso’s recordings brought the art form into homes around the world, helping to democratize classical music. His expressive tenor voice had a lyrical sweetness combined with an emotional sincerity that connected deeply with listeners. From his unforgettable rendition of “Vesti la giubba” to his charismatic stage presence at the Metropolitan Opera, Caruso’s performances were charged with genuine passion and humanity. He wasn’t just singing notes—he was communicating stories and soul. Despite limited formal training, he had impeccable instincts and a profound understanding of phrasing and expression. Caruso was also a beloved figure, known for his generosity and sense of humor. His voice, preserved on early gramophone recordings, still captivates and inspires. More than a century later, Enrico Caruso remains a foundational figure in operatic history and a testament to the enduring power of a great voice to move hearts and transcend time.
10. Beverly Sills
Beverly Sills was more than an American soprano—she was a trailblazer, a communicator, and a beloved public figure who brought opera to mainstream audiences. Known for her sparkling coloratura, charismatic presence, and infectious warmth, Sills became a household name at a time when opera rarely crossed into popular culture. Her breakout role as Cleopatra in Handel’s *Giulio Cesare* showcased not only her vocal agility and musical intelligence but also her theatrical flair. Sills brought life and humanity to her characters, making even the most ornate arias feel emotionally grounded. She had an uncanny ability to connect with her audience, whether in an opera house or on a television talk show. After retiring from singing, she continued to shape the classical music world as the general manager of the New York City Opera and later as the chairwoman of Lincoln Center and the Metropolitan Opera. Beverly Sills used her fame to support arts funding, children’s health causes, and access to music education. Her legacy lives on not only in her recordings but also in the countless lives she touched with her voice, her humor, and her deep love for the arts.
11. Thomas Hampson
Thomas Hampson is one of the most versatile and thoughtful baritones of our time, known for his deep connection to language and storytelling in song. Whether performing German Lieder, American art songs, or operatic roles, Hampson brings a scholar’s insight and a performer’s heart to everything he sings. His warm, flexible baritone voice is matched by an intellectual curiosity that has led him to champion overlooked repertoire and promote music as a cultural bridge. Hampson has been especially influential in American music, curating programs that explore the country’s literary and musical heritage. His interpretations of Mahler, in particular, are celebrated for their introspective depth and emotional honesty. Beyond his performances, he is a passionate advocate for music education and digital outreach, founding the Hampsong Foundation to foster access to art song and its historical context. On stage, Hampson’s charisma and communicative power draw audiences into the emotional core of the music. Offstage, he is a teacher, mentor, and cultural ambassador. His career is a remarkable blend of vocal mastery, intellectual engagement, and dedication to using music as a force for understanding and connection.
12. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was more than a tenor—he was a global icon, beloved not just for his astonishing voice but for his warmth, charm, and ability to connect with audiences everywhere. With a smile as radiant as his high Cs, Pavarotti brought opera into the mainstream and became one of the most celebrated and recognizable figures in classical music. His voice was a natural wonder—bright, ringing, and seemingly effortless—making roles like Rodolfo in *La Bohème* and the Duke in *Rigoletto* sound tailor-made for him. Whether performing at the world’s great opera houses or singing with pop stars at stadium concerts, he always retained a sense of sincerity and joy in his music-making. The “Three Tenors” concerts, which he headlined alongside Plácido Domingo and José Carreras, introduced opera to millions around the world. Offstage, Pavarotti was known for his generosity, humor, and commitment to humanitarian causes. He made singing seem like the most natural expression of the soul, and his recordings continue to inspire both seasoned opera fans and newcomers alike. Luciano Pavarotti didn’t just sing opera—he embodied its passion, grandeur, and humanity in every note.
13. Jonas Kaufmann
Jonas Kaufmann is widely regarded as one of the most compelling tenors of the modern era, combining dramatic intensity with exceptional vocal technique and a striking stage presence. With a voice that blends lyrical warmth and heroic power, Kaufmann is equally at home in German, Italian, and French repertoire. His portrayals of characters like Don José, Siegmund, and Werther are lauded for their emotional nuance and psychological depth. What sets Kaufmann apart is his versatility—he can sing with tender introspection in one phrase and unleash thunderous passion in the next, always with remarkable control and color. Beyond opera, Kaufmann’s lieder performances are highly praised, particularly his interpretations of Schubert and Mahler, which reveal a refined artistry and connection to poetic text. He brings a cinematic quality to his roles, immersing himself completely in the music and the drama. Kaufmann also maintains a modern sensibility, embracing technology and media to bring classical music to wider audiences. His career is a masterclass in combining tradition with innovation, and his presence on stage commands attention. With Jonas Kaufmann, every performance feels like a deep dive into the soul of the music.
14. Bryn Terfel
Bryn Terfel, the Welsh bass-baritone with a commanding presence and a voice that can rumble or soar, is known for his ability to inhabit characters with charisma, humor, and gravitas. His rich, expressive voice has made him a favorite in both opera and concert halls around the world. From the boisterous Falstaff to the tormented Wotan, Terfel brings a magnetic theatricality to his roles, blending vocal power with nuanced acting. His interpretation of Wagner roles, in particular, has earned him international acclaim, but he’s equally captivating in lighter fare, including Gilbert and Sullivan or musical theatre. What makes Terfel so special is his authenticity—he never seems to “perform” in the usual sense but instead embodies the characters fully, letting his personality and wit shine through. Outside of opera, he’s recorded traditional Welsh songs, Christmas music, and duets with artists from many genres, showing his musical curiosity and broad appeal. Terfel is more than just a singer—he’s a storyteller, an entertainer, and an ambassador for classical music. His robust voice and larger-than-life spirit continue to resonate with audiences across the globe.
15. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming, often referred to as “The People’s Diva,” is celebrated not just for her luminous soprano voice, but for her warmth, intelligence, and adventurous spirit. Her voice, radiant and silky, has been a staple of the world’s major opera houses for decades, with standout roles in operas by Strauss, Mozart, and Handel. Her portrayal of the Marschallin in *Der Rosenkavalier* and Desdemona in *Otello* are widely praised for their emotional detail and vocal finesse. Fleming is also known for her commitment to expanding the boundaries of classical singing. She’s premiered new works, explored jazz and indie rock in crossover projects, and even sang at the Super Bowl, bringing operatic technique to a massive audience. Beyond her singing career, she’s a champion for arts education, music and health research, and creative innovation, often speaking about the neuroscience of music’s impact on the brain. Her charm and eloquence make her a favorite in interviews, documentaries, and masterclasses. Renée Fleming represents the ideal modern soprano: technically superb, emotionally generous, and unafraid to take risks. Her artistry continues to inspire singers and music lovers around the world.
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.
