Opera, a magnificent blend of music, drama, and emotion, has captivated audiences for centuries. At its heart lie the extraordinary voices that have soared through grand theaters, leaving listeners spellbound. From the haunting arias of Verdi to the passionate duets of Puccini, the best opera singers have not only mastered their craft but have also become legends in their own right.
In this exploration of the top 15 best opera singers of all time, we will journey through the annals of operatic history, celebrating the talents that have defined the genre. These vocal virtuosos, hailing from different eras and backgrounds, have brought characters to life with their unparalleled technique and emotional depth. Their performances have transcended time, inspiring generations of artists and enchanting audiences around the globe.
Join us as we pay homage to these iconic figures, whose rich timbres and breathtaking ranges have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Whether you are a lifelong opera aficionado or a curious newcomer, this list promises to unveil the truly exceptional talents that have shaped the art of opera, showcasing the beauty and power of the human voice.
1. Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was more than an opera singer—he was a cultural icon whose voice could make the heavens ring. Born in Modena, Italy, in 1935, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest tenors of all time. Pavarotti’s voice was both powerful and tender, able to fill the grandest opera houses while still touching the heart of every listener. His signature role as Rodolfo in *La Bohème* showcased his ability to convey love and longing with stunning authenticity, while his legendary rendition of *Nessun Dorma* became a global anthem of triumph and hope. But Pavarotti wasn’t just about the notes; his warmth, charisma, and beaming smile made him beloved across the world, bridging the gap between opera and popular culture. From massive stadium concerts to his famous “Three Tenors” performances, Pavarotti brought opera to millions who had never set foot in an opera house. Even after his passing in 2007, his recordings continue to inspire new generations of singers, proving that his legacy is as enduring as his unforgettable voice.
2. Maria Callas
Maria Callas wasn’t simply a soprano—she was a force of nature who changed opera forever. Born in New York City in 1923 to Greek parents, Callas grew up to become one of the most dramatic and captivating singers in history. Nicknamed “La Divina,” she was renowned not just for her remarkable vocal agility but for the way she inhabited her roles. When Callas sang *Tosca* or *Norma*, she didn’t just perform the music—she became the character, pouring every ounce of her soul into each note. Her voice could be tender one moment, fiery the next, capable of expressing an entire spectrum of human emotion. Off stage, her life was just as dramatic, marked by triumphs, heartbreak, and an enduring mystique that continues to fascinate audiences. Callas redefined what it meant to be an opera singer, proving that true artistry is about more than technical perfection—it’s about telling a story and making people feel.
3. Plácido Domingo
Plácido Domingo is one of the towering figures of opera, a singer whose golden voice and relentless dedication have spanned decades. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo made his operatic debut in 1961 and has since performed more than 150 roles—an unmatched feat in the tenor world. He is especially celebrated for his interpretations of Verdi and Puccini, bringing warmth, power, and nuance to every performance. His voice, rich and expressive, has captivated audiences in every corner of the globe. But Domingo’s influence goes beyond singing—he is also a skilled conductor and has led major opera companies, shaping the art form from both sides of the stage. His collaborations, including his iconic role in “The Three Tenors” alongside Pavarotti and José Carreras, brought opera to millions who might never have experienced it otherwise. Over half a century into his career, Domingo remains a symbol of passion, artistry, and dedication to the music he loves.
4. Joan Sutherland
Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was one of the most extraordinary sopranos of the 20th century. Born in Australia in 1926, she possessed a lush, soaring voice that seemed to have no limits. Sutherland was a master of bel canto—the intricate, florid style of singing found in the works of Donizetti and Bellini—and her performances revived interest in operas that had long been forgotten. Her astonishing technique allowed her to navigate dazzling runs and trills with ease, leaving audiences breathless. But it wasn’t just her voice; Sutherland’s stage presence and commitment brought every role to life, from tragic heroines to spirited leading ladies. She became an international star, beloved by fans and revered by colleagues. Through her recordings and live performances, she left behind a legacy that reshaped the operatic landscape and continues to inspire singers who dream of matching her brilliance.
5. Renée Fleming
Renée Fleming is the rare kind of soprano who feels as much at home in a grand opera house as she does on a concert stage or even at a sporting event—famously singing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. Born in Indiana in 1959, Fleming’s voice is a marvel: rich, velvety, and capable of breathtaking emotional depth. She has enchanted audiences with roles in *Thais*, *Rusalka*, and *The Merry Widow*, bringing elegance and sincerity to each performance. Known as “the people’s diva,” Fleming has a warmth and grace that make her instantly relatable, even as she delivers music of extraordinary complexity. Beyond the stage, she is a passionate advocate for the arts, commissioning new works and championing music education. Her career proves that opera is not a relic of the past but a living, evolving art form—and she continues to be one of its brightest stars.
6. Franco Corelli
Franco Corelli, the Italian tenor born in 1921, was often called “the prince of tenors” for his movie-star looks and electrifying stage presence. But his appeal wasn’t just visual—his voice was a thrilling, heroic sound that could fill an opera house with seemingly effortless power. Corelli shone in roles like Manrico in *Il Trovatore* and Don José in *Carmen*, where his passionate singing made characters leap to life. Audiences loved his intensity; he didn’t just sing, he threw himself into every role. During his career from the 1950s to the 1970s, Corelli became a legend, inspiring countless young singers to dream big. Even now, his recordings remain a masterclass in operatic fire and romance.
7. Birgit Nilsson
Birgit Nilsson, born in Sweden in 1918, was a true vocal powerhouse—a soprano whose voice could soar effortlessly over even the mightiest orchestras. She became one of the greatest interpreters of Wagner, excelling in monumental roles like Brünnhilde in *Die Walküre* and Isolde in *Tristan und Isolde*. Nilsson’s voice was huge and gleaming, but it was also beautiful, capable of moments of incredible delicacy. Her commanding stage presence made her unforgettable, and her sense of humor offstage endeared her to fans and colleagues alike. She was a trailblazer, proving that technical brilliance and humanity can coexist in one extraordinary artist.
8. Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Dmitri Hvorostovsky, the Siberian-born baritone, brought a rare mix of elegance and power to opera. Born in 1962, he became known for his silvery, velvety voice and his striking presence on stage. His portrayals of characters like Onegin in *Eugene Onegin* or Rigoletto showcased not just vocal mastery but emotional vulnerability, drawing listeners deeply into the story. Hvorostovsky’s charisma made him a favorite with audiences around the world, and his kindness offstage only deepened that connection. Even after his untimely passing in 2017, his legacy lives on through his recordings, which continue to move and inspire.
9. Leyla Gencer
Leyla Gencer, the Turkish soprano born in 1928, was a queen of bel canto and a deeply respected figure in the opera world. Known for her artistry rather than commercial fame, she poured her heart into roles in operas by Donizetti, Mozart, and Verdi. Gencer’s interpretations were marked by emotional depth and an almost spiritual devotion to the music. She became a favorite in Europe, especially in Italy, where her dramatic instincts and fearless singing won her devoted admirers. Her legacy is one of integrity—an artist who lived for her craft and left behind a wealth of performances that continue to inspire.
10. José Carreras
José Carreras, born in Barcelona in 1946, is celebrated for his warm, lyrical tenor voice and his indomitable spirit. Rising to fame in the 1970s, he became one of the world’s leading interpreters of Verdi and Puccini. His career took a dramatic turn when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 1987, but his remarkable recovery and return to the stage inspired millions. Carreras’s work with Pavarotti and Domingo as part of “The Three Tenors” brought opera to global pop culture heights. Beyond music, his leukemia foundation reflects his deep commitment to giving back, making him a beloved figure both on and off stage.
11. Anna Netrebko
Anna Netrebko, born in Russia in 1971, is one of the most dazzling sopranos of the 21st century. Her rise was meteoric—she went from cleaning the floors of the Mariinsky Theatre to commanding its stage. With her rich, luminous voice and magnetic stage presence, she has redefined what it means to be an opera star. Her performances in *La Traviata* and *Don Giovanni* are filled with passion and elegance, captivating audiences across the globe. Netrebko’s modern, glamorous image and willingness to take artistic risks have brought opera to a new generation, ensuring the art form’s vitality for years to come.
12. Samuel Ramey
Samuel Ramey, the American bass-baritone born in 1942, has been a commanding presence in opera houses for decades. Known for his dark, resonant voice and impeccable technique, Ramey excelled in roles like the devilish Méphistophélès in *Faust* and the villainous Don Giovanni. His ability to balance vocal power with dramatic nuance made him a favorite of audiences and critics alike. Beyond his vocal gifts, Ramey brought charisma and depth to every performance, creating characters that felt fully alive. His legacy is one of both artistry and generosity, as he has inspired countless young singers through teaching and mentorship.
13. Kiri Te Kanawa
Kiri Te Kanawa, the New Zealand soprano born in 1944, has one of the most beautiful voices of her generation—warm, creamy, and instantly recognizable. She became an international sensation with her role as the Countess in Mozart’s *The Marriage of Figaro*, and her career has spanned opera houses and concert stages worldwide. Te Kanawa’s voice carries a sense of grace and serenity that has enchanted audiences for decades. Beyond her singing, she has devoted herself to supporting young musicians through her foundation, ensuring that the next generation of artists has the opportunities they need to flourish.
14. Cecilia Bartoli
Cecilia Bartoli, the Italian mezzo-soprano born in 1966, is one of opera’s most innovative and exciting performers. Known for her dazzling vocal agility and charismatic personality, Bartoli has brought fresh energy to Baroque and bel canto music. Her performances in works by Handel and Rossini are filled with joy, humor, and technical brilliance, often rediscovering forgotten gems of the repertoire. Bartoli is not afraid to take risks, whether it’s through inventive staging, unique projects, or her leadership of the Salzburg Whitsun Festival. She has shown that opera can be both historically informed and utterly contemporary, keeping audiences engaged and inspired.
15. Thomas Hampson
Thomas Hampson, the American baritone born in 1955, is a true scholar-artist whose rich voice and thoughtful interpretations have earned him worldwide respect. Known for his work in operas like *The Flying Dutchman* and for his deeply moving performances of Mahler’s songs, Hampson combines vocal beauty with intellectual depth. He has championed the art of song, curating recitals that explore history, poetry, and culture. Offstage, he is an educator and mentor, passionate about sharing music’s power with new audiences. Hampson’s career shows that opera is not just entertainment—it is a living, breathing art form that can connect us to the deepest parts of our humanity.
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.
