27 Most Famous Female Opera Singers of All Time

Opera has long been a platform for extraordinary female talent, with sopranos and mezzo-sopranos captivating audiences for centuries.

From the dramatic intensity of Maria Callas to the technical brilliance of Joan Sutherland, these singers have set the standard for vocal excellence.

Modern artists like Renée Fleming and Anna Netrebko carry the torch, proving that the world of opera is as vibrant as ever. This article celebrates the achievements of these iconic women, exploring their careers and contributions to the timeless art of opera.

27 Greatest & Most Well-Known Female Opera Singers You Should Hear!

These women have made significant contributions to opera with their extraordinary voices, artistry, and unforgettable performances.

Here is a list of 27 famous female opera singers, showcasing a mix of legendary and contemporary talents:

#1 Maria Callas

Maria Callas, often referred to as “La Divina,” is one of the most celebrated opera singers in history, renowned for her dramatic artistry and vocal versatility. Born in New York City and raised in Greece, she gained international fame in the mid-20th century with her powerful performances in works by Bellini, Puccini, and Verdi. Callas’ ability to blend technical precision with intense emotional expression set her apart as a revolutionary force in opera.

Her interpretations of roles like Tosca and Norma are legendary, showcasing her unique ability to convey deep character insight. Despite controversies surrounding her personal life, Callas remains a defining figure in the operatic world, inspiring generations of singers.

#2 Renée Fleming

Renée Fleming, known as “The People’s Diva,” is a modern soprano celebrated for her luminous voice and elegant stage presence. A native of Indiana, Pennsylvania, Fleming has performed leading roles in operas by Strauss, Mozart, and Verdi. Her portrayal of the Marschallin in Der Rosenkavalier and Desdemona in Otello are particularly iconic, praised for their emotional depth and vocal beauty.

Fleming has also pushed boundaries, embracing jazz, musical theater, and contemporary works. With numerous Grammy Awards and global accolades, she remains a beloved figure in opera and beyond, serving as a cultural ambassador for the art form.

#3 Leontyne Price

Leontyne Price, one of the first African American sopranos to achieve international stardom, is renowned for her rich, soaring voice and groundbreaking career. Born in Laurel, Mississippi, Price made history as the first African American to star in a leading role at the Metropolitan Opera. Her performances in roles like Aida, Tosca, and Donna Anna earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following.

Price’s legacy extends beyond her extraordinary talent; she broke racial barriers in classical music, paving the way for future generations of singers. Her recordings and live performances remain a testament to her artistry and resilience.

#4 Montserrat Caballé

Montserrat Caballé, born in Barcelona, Spain, was a legendary soprano known for her exquisite bel canto technique and extraordinary vocal control. Her 1965 performance of Lucrezia Borgia in New York propelled her to international fame, showcasing her incredible ability to sustain long, ethereal phrases. Caballé’s repertoire spanned works by Bellini, Donizetti, and Verdi, as well as lesser-known operatic gems.

She gained pop culture recognition through her collaboration with Freddie Mercury on the album Barcelona. Caballé’s career is celebrated for its longevity, technical brilliance, and her ability to transcend traditional opera audiences.

#5 Anna Netrebko

Anna Netrebko, one of the most prominent sopranos of the 21st century, is known for her charismatic stage presence and dazzling voice. Born in Krasnodar, Russia, Netrebko gained international fame after her breakout role as Natasha in Prokofiev’s War and Peace. She has since become a staple at major opera houses, performing roles like Violetta in La Traviata and Lady Macbeth in Macbeth.

Netrebko’s dynamic performances and glamorous persona have made her a global ambassador for opera. Her ability to balance technical mastery with deep emotional connection has earned her widespread acclaim and cemented her place among opera’s elite.

#6 Joan Sutherland

Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as “La Stupenda,” was an Australian soprano celebrated for her impeccable bel canto technique and extraordinary range. Her 1959 performance in Lucia di Lammermoor launched her into international stardom, showcasing her stunning vocal agility and dramatic intensity. Sutherland became synonymous with roles by Bellini, Donizetti, and Handel, revitalizing interest in these composers during her career.

Her partnership with conductor and husband Richard Bonynge further enhanced her artistic achievements. Sutherland’s remarkable vocal talent and trailblazing career continue to influence the world of opera, inspiring singers and audiences alike.

#7 Cecilia Bartoli

Cecilia Bartoli, an Italian mezzo-soprano, is celebrated for her stunning coloratura agility, rich tone, and adventurous repertoire choices. She gained international fame with her performances in operas by Rossini and Mozart, particularly excelling in roles like Rosina in The Barber of Seville and Cherubino in The Marriage of Figaro. Bartoli’s commitment to rediscovering and championing lesser-known works has revitalized interest in Baroque and Classical opera.

Her dynamic stage presence and ability to convey deep emotion have made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike. Bartoli’s recordings and live performances reflect her passion for both technical mastery and artistic innovation.

#8 Kirsten Flagstad

Kirsten Flagstad, born in Norway, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of all time. Her powerful and pure voice was perfectly suited for the demanding roles of Brünnhilde in The Ring Cycle and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde. Flagstad’s performances at the Metropolitan Opera in the 1930s solidified her reputation as a masterful interpreter of Wagner’s music.

Her ability to sustain long, dramatic lines with unmatched vocal beauty set her apart from her contemporaries. Flagstad’s contributions to opera remain a benchmark for excellence in the Wagnerian repertoire.

#9 Jessye Norman

Jessye Norman, an American soprano from Augusta, Georgia, was known for her majestic voice and commanding stage presence. With a repertoire ranging from Wagner and Strauss to spirituals and contemporary works, Norman’s versatility was unparalleled. Her performances in operas like Ariadne auf Naxos and Tannhäuser showcased her ability to combine technical precision with deep emotional resonance.

Norman’s legacy extends beyond her voice; she was a trailblazer who used her platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in classical music. Her artistry and cultural impact have left an indelible mark on the world of opera.

#10 Diana Damrau

Diana Damrau, a German soprano, is renowned for her sparkling coloratura and dramatic intensity. Known for her portrayal of the Queen of the Night in Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Damrau has captivated audiences with her virtuosic high notes and expressive acting. Her repertoire also includes leading roles in operas by Verdi, Strauss, and Donizetti.

Damrau’s ability to balance technical brilliance with heartfelt storytelling has made her one of the most sought-after sopranos of her generation. Her vibrant performances continue to inspire and delight audiences worldwide.

#11 Beverly Sills

Beverly Sills, an American soprano affectionately nicknamed “Bubbles,” was a trailblazer in bringing opera to a broader audience. Known for her roles in bel canto operas like Lucia di Lammermoor and La Traviata, Sills was celebrated for her vocal agility and emotional depth. Her work at the New York City Opera in the 1960s and 1970s helped elevate the company’s international reputation.

Beyond her singing career, Sills became a beloved public figure, advocating for the arts and serving as a prominent arts administrator. Her charisma and dedication to her craft left a lasting legacy in American opera.

#12 Teresa Berganza

Teresa Berganza, a Spanish mezzo-soprano, is known for her refined artistry and compelling interpretations of roles by Mozart, Rossini, and Bizet. Her Carmen in Bizet’s Carmen remains a definitive portrayal, blending sensuality and vocal precision. Berganza’s clear tone and impeccable phrasing made her a master of both dramatic and comedic roles.

Her performances were characterized by a deep connection to the music and an elegant stage presence. Berganza’s influence continues to inspire mezzo-sopranos seeking to emulate her blend of technical excellence and emotional authenticity.

#13 Elīna Garanča

Elīna Garanča, a Latvian mezzo-soprano, is celebrated for her velvety tone and commanding stage presence. Rising to fame with roles like Carmen in Bizet’s Carmen and Octavian in Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier, Garanča has become one of the leading mezzo-sopranos of her time. Her ability to balance vocal power with lyrical beauty sets her apart.

Garanča’s dedication to exploring a wide range of roles, from Baroque to contemporary opera, showcases her versatility and artistry. Her performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

#14 Barbara Bonney

Barbara Bonney, an American soprano, is known for her luminous voice and elegant interpretations of lieder and operatic roles. Specializing in works by Mozart and Strauss, Bonney excelled in roles like Susanna in The Marriage of Figaro and Sophie in Der Rosenkavalier. Her refined technique and attention to detail made her a favorite among both audiences and critics.

Bonney’s extensive recordings and concert performances have solidified her reputation as one of the finest lyric sopranos of her generation. Her artistry continues to influence singers seeking to master the subtleties of classical music.

#15 Angela Gheorghiu

Angela Gheorghiu, a Romanian soprano, is celebrated for her luxurious voice, captivating stage presence, and dramatic interpretations. Her breakout role as Violetta in Verdi’s La Traviata at the Royal Opera House in 1994 catapulted her to international fame. Gheorghiu is known for her ability to infuse intense emotion into her performances, excelling in roles like Tosca and Mimì in La Bohème.

Her vibrant personality and commitment to artistic excellence have made her a standout figure in modern opera. Gheorghiu’s extensive discography and live performances continue to enchant audiences worldwide, ensuring her place among opera’s greats.

#16 Victoria de los Ángeles

Victoria de los Ángeles, a Spanish soprano, was renowned for her warm, lyrical voice and heartfelt interpretations. Rising to fame in the mid-20th century, she became a beloved figure in roles like Marguerite in Gounod’s Faust and Mimì in Puccini’s La Bohème. Her ability to blend vocal purity with emotional depth set her apart as one of the era’s finest sopranos.

In addition to her operatic work, de los Ángeles excelled in Spanish art songs, showcasing her versatility and connection to her cultural roots. Her recordings remain treasured for their beauty and timeless artistry.

#17 Hildegard Behrens

Hildegard Behrens, a German soprano, was known for her powerful voice and intense dramatic presence, particularly in Wagnerian roles. She gained international acclaim for her portrayals of Brünnhilde in The Ring Cycle and Elektra in Strauss’s Elektra. Behrens brought a unique psychological depth to her characters, combining vocal brilliance with compelling acting.

Her ability to convey complex emotions made her a favorite among audiences and conductors. Behrens’ legacy as a dramatic soprano remains influential, inspiring performers to approach challenging roles with both technical skill and emotional authenticity.

#18 Deborah Voigt

Deborah Voigt, an American dramatic soprano, is celebrated for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence. Known for her performances in Wagnerian and Strauss operas, she excelled in roles like Sieglinde in Die Walküre and Ariadne in Ariadne auf Naxos. Voigt’s ability to navigate demanding vocal lines with precision and warmth established her as a leading soprano.

Her openness about personal challenges, including weight loss and vocal struggles, has made her an inspirational figure in the opera world. Voigt’s artistry and resilience continue to resonate with audiences and aspiring singers alike.

#19 Giulietta Simionato

Giulietta Simionato, an Italian mezzo-soprano, was one of the most versatile and beloved singers of the mid-20th century. Known for her rich tone and dramatic expressiveness, she excelled in roles like Azucena in Verdi’s Il Trovatore and Rosina in Rossini’s The Barber of Seville. Simionato’s ability to transition seamlessly between dramatic and comedic roles showcased her exceptional range.

Her warm stage presence and deep understanding of character made her a favorite of audiences and critics. Simionato’s influence on the mezzo-soprano repertoire remains significant, with her performances setting a high standard for generations to come.

#20 Rosa Ponselle

Rosa Ponselle, an American soprano, was one of the most acclaimed opera singers of the early 20th century. Born in Connecticut, she made her debut at the Metropolitan Opera alongside Enrico Caruso in Verdi’s La Forza del Destino, an extraordinary feat for a debutante. Known for her rich, velvety voice, Ponselle excelled in dramatic roles like Norma in Bellini’s Norma and Leonora in Verdi’s La Forza del Destino.

Her contributions to the operatic world were groundbreaking, particularly as one of the first great American-born sopranos. Ponselle’s recordings continue to inspire admiration for her unmatched vocal artistry.

#21 Renata Tebaldi

Renata Tebaldi, an Italian soprano, was celebrated for her lush voice and refined artistry, earning her the nickname “The Voice of an Angel.” A mainstay of the 20th-century opera scene, Tebaldi became a favorite at La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera with iconic roles like Tosca and Desdemona in Otello. Her warm and expressive performances captivated audiences worldwide.

Tebaldi’s rivalry with Maria Callas became part of operatic lore, though the two legends admired each other’s artistry. Her timeless recordings and unforgettable performances have solidified her status as one of the greatest sopranos in history.

#22 Elvira de Hidalgo

Elvira de Hidalgo, a Spanish soprano and distinguished teacher, is remembered for her exquisite bel canto performances and her influential role in shaping future opera stars. Known for her interpretations of Rossini and Bellini, de Hidalgo’s technical precision and elegant phrasing made her a celebrated artist in the early 20th century. Her performances in Il Barbiere di Siviglia as Rosina were particularly iconic, showcasing her vocal agility and charm.

Beyond her performing career, de Hidalgo became a legendary vocal coach, most notably mentoring Maria Callas. Her contributions to opera extend beyond the stage, leaving a profound impact on the art form through her students.

#23 Edita Gruberová

Edita Gruberová, a Slovak soprano, is hailed as the “Queen of Bel Canto” for her extraordinary vocal control and dazzling coloratura. Rising to fame with her role as the Queen of the Night in Mozart’s The Magic Flute, Gruberová became a fixture in the world’s top opera houses. Her portrayals of Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor and Elvira in I Puritani remain benchmarks of bel canto artistry.

Known for her ability to navigate demanding vocal lines with precision and emotional depth, Gruberová captivated audiences for decades. Her longevity and consistent excellence have solidified her as one of the greatest sopranos of her era.

#24 Régine Crespin

Régine Crespin, a French soprano and later mezzo-soprano, was renowned for her lush, velvety tone and compelling stage presence. She gained international acclaim for her performances in Wagnerian and French repertoire, excelling as Sieglinde in Die Walküre and the Marschallin in Der Rosenkavalier. Crespin’s interpretations of French operas like Carmen and Pélleas et Mélisande showcased her deep understanding of her native repertoire.

Her ability to convey emotional nuance and dramatic intensity made her a favorite among audiences and critics. Crespin’s recordings remain treasured for their artistry and vocal beauty.

#25 Mirella Freni

Mirella Freni, an Italian soprano, was celebrated for her warmth, elegance, and lyrical beauty. A protégé of Arturo Toscanini, Freni made her mark with roles like Mimì in La Bohème and Desdemona in Otello. Her vocal purity and nuanced interpretations brought a timeless quality to her performances, endearing her to audiences worldwide.

Freni’s long career was marked by a deep dedication to her art, with each role meticulously crafted. Her partnership with Luciano Pavarotti in numerous productions remains a highlight of operatic history.

#26 Birgit Nilsson

Birgit Nilsson, a Swedish soprano, was a towering figure in the world of dramatic opera, particularly renowned for her Wagnerian roles. Her performances as Brünnhilde in The Ring Cycle and Isolde in Tristan und Isolde are legendary, showcasing her immense vocal power and endurance. Nilsson’s voice, often described as steely yet beautiful, effortlessly soared over even the most massive orchestras.

Her command of the stage and ability to bring complexity to her characters solidified her reputation as one of opera’s greatest sopranos. Nilsson’s influence on the dramatic repertoire remains unmatched, inspiring generations of singers.

#27 Emma Kirkby

Emma Kirkby, a British soprano, is renowned for her contributions to early music and her pure, ethereal voice. Specializing in Baroque and Renaissance repertoire, Kirkby’s interpretations of works by Handel, Purcell, and Monteverdi have been lauded for their authenticity and grace. Her commitment to historically informed performance practices set her apart from many of her contemporaries.

Unlike many operatic divas, Kirkby focused primarily on concert work and recordings, bringing forgotten masterpieces to life. Her artistry and dedication to early music have earned her a unique place in the world of classical singing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered the greatest female opera singer of all time?

Maria Callas is often hailed as the greatest female opera singer due to her unparalleled dramatic intensity, vocal technique, and transformative performances. Her ability to combine technical mastery with deep emotional expression revolutionized the art form.

Which female opera singer is best known for bel canto roles?

Joan Sutherland, known as “La Stupenda,” is celebrated for her exceptional bel canto performances. Her roles in operas by Bellini and Donizetti showcased her vocal agility and soaring high notes.

What contributions did Leontyne Price make to opera?

Leontyne Price broke racial barriers in opera, becoming the first African American to achieve international stardom in the art form. Her powerful voice and interpretations of roles like Aida and Tosca earned her critical acclaim and paved the way for future generations of singers.

Are there modern female opera singers who continue the legacy of past greats?

Yes, singers like Anna Netrebko and Diana Damrau continue the legacy of operatic excellence with their extraordinary talent and global influence. They bring fresh interpretations to classic roles while engaging new audiences.