Opera, a grand tapestry of music, emotion, and storytelling, has produced some of the most extraordinary voices in history. From the soaring heights of dramatic arias to the tender nuances of heartfelt ballads, the art of opera has captivated audiences for centuries. But who are the legends that have defined this magnificent genre?

In this article, we delve into the lives and careers of the top 15 best opera singers of all time, each a master of their craft, whose powerful voices have transcended time and geography. These singers have not only set the stage ablaze with their talent but have also influenced generations of performers and music lovers alike.

Join us as we explore their remarkable journeys, the roles that made them icons, and the indelible marks they left on the world of opera. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, this list promises to ignite your passion for opera and introduce you to the titans of the genre. Prepare to be inspired as we celebrate the artistry and legacy of these phenomenal singers who have sung their way into the annals of musical history.

1. Luciano Pavarotti

Luciano Pavarotti remains one of the most iconic figures in the world of opera, a name that resonates with both seasoned aficionados and casual listeners alike. Born in Modena, Italy, in 1935, Pavarotti’s rise from a modest background to global stardom is nothing short of extraordinary. What set him apart was not just his powerful tenor voice, but his ability to infuse each note with warmth, passion, and an unmistakable humanity. His interpretation of “Nessun dorma” from Puccini’s Turandot became more than just a performance—it became an emblem of operatic beauty and emotional transcendence.

Pavarotti brought opera to the masses with unprecedented success, performing in packed stadiums and televised concerts that reached millions. His collaborations with artists from different musical genres, including pop stars like Bono and Sting, broke boundaries and introduced classical music to new audiences. Whether singing with The Three Tenors or solo on the grandest stages, his charisma and vocal mastery were always front and center. Pavarotti didn’t just sing—he told stories, stirred hearts, and made opera feel accessible and deeply human. His legacy endures as a beacon of artistic excellence and a reminder of how one voice can truly move the world.

2. Maria Callas

Maria Callas, often hailed as “La Divina,” was a revolutionary figure who redefined what it meant to be an operatic soprano. Born in New York City in 1923 to Greek immigrant parents, she possessed not only a remarkable voice but also a magnetic stage presence that brought characters vividly to life. Her artistry was about more than just vocal technique—it was about emotional truth. Callas could embody the heartbreak of Violetta in La Traviata or the fury of Medea with such intensity that audiences were left breathless. Her voice, with its unique timbre and expressive range, was instantly recognizable and deeply affecting.

Callas brought a dramatic realism to opera that changed how audiences experienced the genre. She was as much an actress as a singer, diving into her roles with emotional commitment and intelligence. Critics and fans alike admired her for the way she fused music and character, breathing life into centuries-old operas and making them feel urgent and modern. Though her career was not without controversy or challenges, her influence is undeniable. Generations of singers continue to study her recordings for their passion and precision. Maria Callas left a legacy that transcends notes and arias—she gave opera a soul.

3. Plácido Domingo

Plácido Domingo stands as one of opera’s most versatile and enduring figures. Born in Madrid in 1941, Domingo possesses a rare blend of vocal mastery, dramatic skill, and artistic leadership that has shaped the operatic world for over half a century. Though originally trained as a baritone, he rose to fame as a tenor, eventually singing more than 150 roles—more than any other leading tenor in history. His performances in operas such as Otello, Don Carlo, and Carmen are revered for their emotional power, vocal strength, and rich interpretation.

Domingo is also known for his collaboration as one of “The Three Tenors,” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras. Their concerts brought opera to millions of new listeners, breaking barriers between classical and popular music. Offstage, Domingo has made significant contributions as a conductor and arts administrator, notably leading major opera houses like the Washington National Opera and Los Angeles Opera. His passion for nurturing new talent has helped cultivate the next generation of singers.

Domingo’s voice and artistry have spanned genres, decades, and continents. Even later in his career, he continued to adapt by returning to baritone roles, displaying both humility and brilliance. He remains a true titan of opera whose legacy continues to inspire.

4. Joan Sutherland

Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was one of the most remarkable sopranos of the 20th century. Born in Sydney, Australia, in 1926, Sutherland possessed a voice of extraordinary beauty, range, and agility. She quickly rose to prominence in the 1950s and became a central figure in the bel canto revival, helping to restore works by composers like Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini to international opera stages.

Her performance in Lucia di Lammermoor at London’s Royal Opera House in 1959 catapulted her to worldwide fame, establishing her as a master of vocal ornamentation and expressive phrasing. What made Sutherland unique was her astonishing technical control—her soaring high notes, effortless runs, and warm timbre brought both virtuosity and humanity to her roles.

Sutherland’s longstanding collaboration with her husband, conductor Richard Bonynge, created a partnership that breathed new life into overlooked repertoire. Together, they championed neglected operas, giving them new recognition and respect. Her artistry was not just about vocal brilliance—it was about storytelling, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to musical excellence.

Joan Sutherland’s influence can still be felt today. Her recordings remain essential listening, and her career continues to inspire sopranos around the world seeking to master the art of bel canto.

5. Renée Fleming

Renée Fleming is one of the most beloved sopranos of our time, known for her sumptuous voice, graceful artistry, and wide-ranging musical versatility. Born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, in 1959 and raised in a musical family, Fleming rose to international prominence in the 1990s. Her lyric soprano—warm, silvery, and expressive—has made her a favorite in roles like the Countess in The Marriage of Figaro, Rusalka in Dvořák’s opera, and the title role in Thaïs.

Beyond her classical credentials, Fleming is admired for her willingness to cross genres. She has recorded everything from jazz standards to indie rock interpretations and even sang the national anthem at the 2014 Super Bowl. Her fearless exploration outside traditional opera boundaries has brought classical music to broader audiences.

Fleming’s elegant stage presence and heartfelt interpretations have made her not only a star of the world’s great opera houses but also a champion of arts education and vocal health. She often engages in outreach efforts and mentors young artists, helping to preserve the craft for the next generation.

With a career defined by intelligence, beauty, and grace, Renée Fleming remains a towering figure in modern opera—an artist whose voice continues to move and inspire.

6. Dmitri Hvorostovsky

Dmitri Hvorostovsky was a Russian baritone whose voice was as striking as his presence. Born in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia, in 1962, Hvorostovsky possessed a rich, velvety tone and a magnetic stage personality that won him international fame. He rose to prominence after winning the prestigious Cardiff Singer of the World competition in 1989, where his charisma and commanding voice captivated the jury and the world.

Hvorostovsky was especially renowned for his interpretations of Russian repertoire, particularly Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff. His portrayal of Eugene Onegin remains a benchmark of emotional depth and vocal excellence. But his talents extended well beyond Russian opera—he also performed Verdi roles such as Count di Luna and Germont with compelling intensity.

Even as he battled brain cancer later in life, Hvorostovsky continued to perform with astonishing strength and dignity. His final appearances, marked by emotional poignancy, demonstrated his unwavering dedication to the art of singing.

Dmitri Hvorostovsky left an indelible mark on the opera world through his artistry and courage. His recordings and performances remain cherished by fans, and his legacy lives on as a model of excellence, resilience, and emotional honesty in opera.

7. Birgit Nilsson

Birgit Nilsson, born in 1918 in Västra Karup, Sweden, was one of the most powerful and revered dramatic sopranos of the 20th century. Her voice, famed for its incredible volume, clarity, and stamina, made her the undisputed queen of the Wagnerian repertoire. She excelled in challenging roles such as Brünnhilde in The Ring Cycle and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde, where she brought both heroic strength and poignant vulnerability to the stage.

What set Nilsson apart wasn’t just the sheer power of her instrument—it was her remarkable precision, endurance, and musical intelligence. Her legendary high Cs could soar above a full orchestra without strain, yet she also had a wry sense of humor and humility offstage that endeared her to colleagues and fans alike.

She also made significant contributions to the works of Richard Strauss, Puccini, and Verdi, particularly in roles like Turandot and Elektra. Nilsson’s long career was marked by unforgettable performances in the world’s leading opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera and Bayreuth Festival.

Her legacy endures not only through her recordings but also through the Birgit Nilsson Foundation, which supports young artists. She remains a towering icon of vocal power and artistic excellence.

8. Franco Corelli

Franco Corelli, born in 1921 in Ancona, Italy, was a tenor whose voice and presence set hearts racing. With his rugged good looks, passionate delivery, and thrilling upper register, he became one of opera’s most celebrated and charismatic stars during the mid-20th century. Known as the “Prince of Tenors,” Corelli brought fire and intensity to every performance, whether in Tosca, Turandot, or Aida.

Corelli’s voice was both heroic and lyrical, allowing him to handle demanding roles with a blend of power and beauty. His high notes, especially his famous high C, were delivered with a combination of force and flair that electrified audiences. But he wasn’t just about vocal bravado—his interpretations were deeply emotional, often moving audiences to tears with the vulnerability he brought to romantic and tragic characters.

Despite struggling with stage fright throughout his career, Corelli remained a beloved figure, revered not only for his vocal prowess but for his dedication to the dramatic truth of opera. His performances at La Scala and the Met became the stuff of legend, and his influence can still be heard in the style of many modern tenors. Franco Corelli embodied the passion and grandeur of Italian opera at its finest.

9. Cecilia Bartoli

Cecilia Bartoli, born in Rome in 1966, is a mezzo-soprano renowned for her vibrant personality, jaw-dropping technique, and adventurous spirit. From the start of her career, Bartoli stood out for her ability to combine breathtaking vocal agility with deep character insight. Her voice—warm, flexible, and expressive—makes her a perfect interpreter of the bel canto repertoire, as well as of Baroque and Classical works.

Bartoli has played a key role in reviving lesser-known operas and composers, often researching forgotten works and bringing them back to the stage with dazzling success. Her interpretations of La Cenerentola, Norma, and Giulio Cesare have earned critical acclaim for both vocal brilliance and dramatic flair.

Never one to shy away from creative challenges, Bartoli has also made significant contributions as a concert artist and recording star. Her performances are marked by enthusiasm and intelligence, and she brings humor and humanity to every role she undertakes.

In addition to her onstage work, Bartoli has served as artistic director of prestigious festivals, further shaping the world of classical music. She continues to captivate global audiences with her passion and innovation, proving that opera can be both historically rich and thrillingly contemporary.

10. Lawrence Brownlee

Lawrence Brownlee, born in 1972 in Youngstown, Ohio, is one of the most exciting tenors of the modern era. Known for his sparkling high notes and remarkable vocal agility, Brownlee has become a standout interpreter of bel canto roles, especially those of Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti. His performances in The Barber of Seville, I Puritani, and La Sonnambula have garnered rave reviews worldwide.

What sets Brownlee apart is his incredible command of coloratura passages—demanding runs, leaps, and ornaments that require both control and finesse. Yet he also brings emotional nuance and sincerity to his performances, creating characters that are not only technically impressive but deeply human.

Offstage, Brownlee is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in opera. He frequently uses his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting African American artists and has premiered works that explore contemporary themes and Black experiences.

His engaging personality, commitment to musical excellence, and willingness to push artistic boundaries make him not only a leading tenor of his generation but also a force for change in the opera world. Lawrence Brownlee continues to inspire both audiences and fellow artists with every performance.

11. Anna Netrebko

Anna Netrebko, born in Krasnodar, Russia, in 1971, is a soprano who has become one of the most internationally acclaimed opera stars of the 21st century. With her lush, powerful voice and glamorous stage presence, she commands attention in every role she performs. Netrebko’s early breakout came in the role of Natasha in War and Peace, but she truly gained global recognition through her performances in La Traviata, Manon Lescaut, and Macbeth.

Her vocal range, emotional expression, and striking appearance have made her a favorite at opera houses like the Met, Vienna State Opera, and La Scala. Netrebko is also known for evolving her repertoire over time—moving from lighter lyric roles into more dramatic territory as her voice matured.

She brings a modern sensibility to opera, frequently engaging with fans on social media and appearing in fashion magazines, thereby broadening opera’s appeal beyond its traditional circles. Despite controversies and political challenges, Netrebko’s artistry continues to shine through her performances, where vulnerability and strength meet on stage.

Anna Netrebko represents the power of opera to remain relevant and riveting in the modern age—an artist who combines old-world technique with a contemporary edge.

12. José Carreras

José Carreras, born in Barcelona in 1946, is a tenor whose voice radiates warmth, elegance, and heartfelt emotion. Rising to fame in the 1970s, Carreras quickly became known for his lyrical phrasing and beautiful tone, particularly in operas by Verdi and Puccini. His performances in La Bohème, Don Carlo, and Werther revealed a sensitivity and romanticism that resonated deeply with audiences around the world.

Though Carreras was already an acclaimed soloist, he gained even greater global fame as one of the “Three Tenors,” alongside Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo. Their iconic concerts brought opera to millions who may have never set foot in an opera house, showcasing the accessibility and grandeur of the art form.

In 1987, Carreras was diagnosed with leukemia—a battle that nearly ended his career. Miraculously, he returned to the stage after a successful recovery and went on to establish the José Carreras International Leukemia Foundation, dedicated to supporting research and patients.

Carreras’s legacy is not only his voice, but also his resilience and generosity. His artistry and humanity continue to inspire fans, and his recordings remain cherished staples in any opera lover’s collection.

13. Kiri Te Kanawa

Kiri Te Kanawa, born in 1944 in Gisborne, New Zealand, is a soprano celebrated for her radiant voice, refined artistry, and natural elegance. Of Māori and European heritage, Te Kanawa quickly rose to international fame in the 1970s, captivating audiences with her performances in Mozart and Strauss operas. Her portrayal of the Countess in The Marriage of Figaro and the Marschallin in Der Rosenkavalier remain among her most acclaimed roles.

With a voice praised for its creamy timbre and effortless delivery, Te Kanawa was a favorite among conductors and audiences alike. Her appearance at the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana—where she sang Handel’s Let the Bright Seraphim—was watched by millions and brought her voice to a global stage.

Beyond opera, Te Kanawa embraced crossover music and released successful recordings of both classical and popular works. Offstage, she became a passionate advocate for young artists, founding the Kiri Te Kanawa Foundation to support the next generation of classical singers.

With poise, grace, and vocal beauty, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa remains a treasured icon whose career helped expand the global reach of opera and bring the music of the stage to audiences of all kinds.

14. Thomas Hampson

Thomas Hampson, born in 1955 in Elkhart, Indiana, is one of the most distinguished American baritones of our time. Renowned for his golden tone, intellectual depth, and commanding stage presence, Hampson has excelled in a wide range of roles from Mozart to Mahler. His interpretations of Don Giovanni, Count Almaviva, and Wolfram in Tannhäuser showcase not only his vocal strength but also his dramatic nuance.

What sets Hampson apart is his profound dedication to the text. He believes in the power of words as much as music, which is why his art songs—particularly his interpretations of German Lieder and American song—are so compelling. He’s been a tireless advocate for American composers, frequently performing and recording music by Barber, Copland, and others.

Hampson is also an educator and scholar, founding the Hampsong Foundation to promote the study and performance of song literature. Through lectures, masterclasses, and digital initiatives, he has helped expand the understanding and appreciation of vocal music.

With a career that spans decades and continents, Thomas Hampson is more than a remarkable baritone—he is a steward of song and a passionate ambassador for the expressive power of the human voice.

15. Angela Gheorghiu

Angela Gheorghiu, born in 1965 in Adjud, Romania, is a soprano renowned for her vocal beauty, dramatic intensity, and magnetic stage presence. Since her breakout performance at London’s Royal Opera House in 1992—when she starred as Mimì in La Bohème—Gheorghiu has been a leading figure on the international opera scene. Her voice, known for its dark, velvety richness and expressive nuance, brings a distinctive emotional depth to every role.

She is particularly acclaimed for her portrayals of Violetta in La Traviata, Tosca in Puccini’s opera of the same name, and Magda in La Rondine. Gheorghiu doesn’t just sing the music; she lives it, embodying each character with passion and vulnerability that make her performances unforgettable.

Offstage, Gheorghiu has cultivated a larger-than-life persona, drawing comparisons to divas of the golden age. Her collaborations with tenors like Roberto Alagna and her many acclaimed recordings have only deepened her reputation as one of opera’s most captivating stars.

Angela Gheorghiu’s artistry continues to captivate audiences around the globe. She remains a shining symbol of what opera can be when vocal excellence meets dramatic fire—and her voice is one that resonates long after the final curtain falls.