The Greatest Opera Singers of All Time

Born in Naples, he transitioned from a mechanic's background to vocal training at the Naples Conservatory. Caruso's operatic debut in 1895 marked the beginning of a stellar career. His breakthrough at La Scala in 1902 led to international fame. Joining the Metropolitan Opera in 1903, he became a leading tenor and performed there until his death. Caruso's versatility and repertoire encompassed a range of operas, and his recordings significantly popularized opera. Despite personal challenges, he engaged in charitable work. Caruso passed away in 1921, leaving an enduring legacy as an iconic figure in classical music.

 Rising to fame in the late 1980s, he became one of the leading baritones of his generation, excelling in both Russian and Italian operatic repertoire. Hvorostovsky performed at prestigious opera houses globally and collaborated with renowned conductors and orchestras. His distinctive voice and commanding performances garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Despite battling brain cancer, he continued to perform until his passing in 2017, leaving behind a significant legacy in the world of opera.

 Rising to prominence in the late 1980s, she has become renowned for her interpretations of classical and Baroque repertoire, particularly works by Mozart, Rossini, and Handel. Bartoli's mezzo-soprano voice is characterized by agility, warmth, and rich tonal quality. Collaborating with leading conductors and orchestras, she has received numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, and is recognized for her dedication to reviving lesser-known works. Beyond her singing career, Bartoli has held administrative roles, contributing significantly to the world of classical music. Her recordings and performances have solidified her status as one of the most celebrated mezzo-sopranos of her generation.

Renowned for her exceptional vocal technique and interpretative skills, she excelled in operatic and lied repertoire, particularly works by Mozart, Richard Strauss, and operettas by Johann Strauss II and Franz Lehár. Collaborating extensively with conductor Herbert von Karajan, Schwarzkopf gained international recognition and performed on major opera stages worldwide. She retired in 1992 and passed away in 2006, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the preeminent sopranos of the 20th century.

She emerged as one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century, celebrated for her powerful voice and remarkable vocal range. Sutherland gained international recognition for her performances in bel canto operas, particularly those by Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini. Her partnership with conductor Richard Bonynge was influential in shaping her career. She received numerous awards, including being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Sutherland retired in 1990 and passed away in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional contributions to the world of opera.

Renowned for his exceptional vocal abilities and versatility, he specializes in Baroque and early music repertoire. Jaroussky's career gained prominence in the early 2000s, and he is recognized for collaborations with prestigious ensembles, interpretations of works by composers like Handel and Vivaldi, and a repertoire that spans opera, oratorio, and art song. His contributions have earned him numerous awards, and he is celebrated for his pure, ethereal voice and expressive performances.

As a castrato, he maintained a high-pitched voice, gaining fame across Europe for his beautiful, powerful, and agile singing. Farinelli served in the courts of several monarchs, including Philip V of Spain, where his voice was believed to have therapeutic effects. He collaborated with prominent composers and played a significant role in the development of opera. After retiring, he lived in Bologna and passed away in 1782. Farinelli's life has been the inspiration for various artistic works, including the 1994 film "Farinelli".

Trained at the University of Toronto and the Curtis Institute of Music, she has gained international recognition for her performances in opera and concerts. Brueggergosman's diverse repertoire spans classical, opera, jazz, and gospel. She has released several albums, earning awards such as Juno Awards and Grammy nominations. Beyond her musical career, she has made contributions to television, charity work, and education initiatives. Brueggergosman's authenticity and personal journey, including experiences with heart surgery, add to her connection with audiences. Her multifaceted career solidifies her as a prominent figure in the Canadian and global music scenes.

Trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, he rose to prominence in the early 1990s, performing at major opera houses worldwide. Terfel is renowned for his versatility, excelling in Mozart, Wagner, and Verdi roles. His contributions extend beyond opera to concerts, recitals, and recordings, earning him Grammy Awards. A cultural ambassador for Welsh music, Terfel actively promotes and supports Welsh folk music and education. Knighted in 2017, he is celebrated for his down-to-earth personality and commitment to his Welsh roots.

After debuting in 1969, Norman quickly gained international acclaim for her powerful voice and dramatic stage presence. Her diverse repertoire included works by Wagner, Strauss, Mahler, and Verdi, as well as jazz and spirituals. Norman received numerous awards, including several Grammys and the National Medal of Arts. Beyond classical music, she collaborated with a range of artists and advocated for arts education and social justice. Her legacy extends to her solo recitals, concerts, and philanthropic efforts. Norman's autobiography, "Stand Up Straight and Sing" was published in 2014. She passed away in 2019, leaving an indelible mark on the world of opera and classical music.

He achieved international fame, making his operatic debut in 1961 and later becoming one of the "Three Tenors" alongside Plácido Domingo and José Carreras. Pavarotti's signature roles included performances in operas by Puccini and Verdi. Beyond opera, he engaged in solo concerts and recordings spanning various genres. His humanitarian efforts, health struggles, and eventual death in 2007 contribute to his enduring legacy in the world of classical music.

Her operatic breakthrough occurred in 1971, leading to international acclaim for performances in roles by Mozart, Strauss, and Verdi. Te Kanawa's elegance and beauty in interpretation made her a leading soprano. Notable for performances at royal events, she also excelled in concerts and recitals, embracing classical, popular, and traditional Māori music. Her extensive recording career garnered critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award in 1982. Te Kanawa received numerous honors, including becoming a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1982. In the later part of her career, she transitioned away from full-scale operatic performances and officially retired in 2017. Dame Kiri Te Kanawa's legacy extends beyond her vocal prowess, encompassing cultural impact and versatility in the world of classical music.

Born in Philadelphia, he gained recognition in 1947 for his exceptional vocal talent at the Hollywood Bowl. Lanza's film career at MGM, including notable works like "That Midnight Kiss" and "The Toast of New Orleans" contributed to his popularity. He achieved significant success with albums like "Be My Love" and "The Great Caruso". Despite facing personal struggles, including health issues and weight problems, Lanza's legacy endures through his influential recordings. He passed away in 1959 at the age of 38, leaving a lasting impact on the world of classical and popular music.

Born in Surrey, Pears studied at the Royal College of Music and met Britten in 1937. Pears premiered many of Britten's works, including operatic roles and vocal compositions. The two formed a personal and professional relationship that lasted over three decades, living openly as life partners. Pears was versatile, performing a wide repertoire, and advocated for contemporary classical music, co-founding the Aldeburgh Festival in 1948. Even after Britten's death in 1976, Pears continued to perform, receiving honors such as a knighthood in 1978. His legacy lives on through recordings and the lasting impact of the Aldeburgh Festival. Peter Pears passed away in 1986.

Trained at the Saint Petersburg State Conservatory, she gained international recognition in the early 2000s with performances at prestigious venues like the Salzburg Festival and the San Francisco Opera. Netrebko's repertoire spans a wide range of roles from various composers, showcasing her vocal prowess and acting ability. She has collaborated with renowned conductors and artists, receiving numerous awards for her contributions to opera. Beyond her musical achievements, Netrebko is recognized for her media presence and glamorous style.

Rising to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, Callas's unique voice, dramatic intensity, and versatility captivated audiences worldwide. Renowned for her portrayals of tragic heroines in works by Verdi, Puccini, Bellini, and Donizetti, she brought a new level of emotional depth and realism to opera. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including controversies and health issues, Callas left an enduring legacy. Her recordings and performances continue to influence opera and cement her status as "La Divina". Maria Callas passed away in 1977, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.

A key member of the "Three Tenors" Carreras excelled in lyric and dramatic roles, particularly in works by Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti. His collaborations and performances with Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo significantly popularized classical music. Recognized for his contributions to music, he received awards such as the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts. After retiring from the opera stage in 2009, Carreras continued to engage in concerts and charitable activities, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

With a strong foundation in opera, she has performed iconic roles in major opera houses worldwide, particularly excelling in works by Mozart, Strauss, and Puccini. Fleming's influence extends beyond classical realms, as she has found success in crossover genres, collaborating with artists from various musical backgrounds. Her numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, reflect her significant contributions to music. Fleming's retirement from full-scale opera performances in 2017 hasn't diminished her impact, as she continues to contribute to concerts, recitals, and educational initiatives, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of classical and crossover music.

Blind since age 12, Bocelli's musical talent emerged early. He achieved widespread recognition with the 1997 album "Romanza" featuring the hit "Con te partirò". Bocelli seamlessly navigates classical and crossover genres, collaborating with artists like Celine Dion. Despite his crossover success, he continues to perform operatic roles, showcasing his classical training. Beyond his musical career, Bocelli engages in philanthropy, contributing to various charitable causes. His ability to blend classical and popular music has made him a beloved and influential figure in the music world.

With a versatile career spanning classic and contemporary operas, he is one of the celebrated "Three Tenors". Domingo's operatic success includes performances at prestigious venues worldwide. Beyond singing, he has made significant contributions as a conductor and held leadership roles in opera companies. Despite facing controversies in 2019, Domingo's impact on classical music remains significant, marked by awards, accolades, and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest opera singers of all time.