The Greatest Female Opera Singers Of All Time, Ranked

Buster McDermott
Updated February 16, 2025 144.0K views 87 items
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Vote on this list of the greatest female opera singers of all time.

While opera isn't the most popular for of modern entertainment, it is still a significant cultural staple in many countries, and can be an incredibly moving experience. An opera singer is skilled in the art of singing, acting, and most importantly, projecting their voice in a powerful way to a live audience, filling the entire theatre with music. Female opera singers can hit the high notes with ease.

Who are the best female opera singers of all time? The talented women featured on this list have made a significant impact in the world of opera, and are incredibly talented. Female opera singers are usually sopranos or altos. If you’re interested in opera and want to see these female singers in action, but can't afford to attend, there are many operas available on DVD as well.

The greatest female opera singers on this list include Maria Callas, Renee Fleming, and Anna Gottlieb. Vote up the best of the best below or add the top female opera singers you think are the best if they aren't already on the list.
Most divisive: Deborah Voigt
Over 10.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Female Opera Singers
  • A true powerhouse in the world of opera, Megan Marie Hart is renowned for her exceptional vocal range and undeniable stage presence. With a mesmerizing soprano voice that can captivate audiences from the first note, she effortlessly embraces the complexities and emotional depths of each role she adopts. Hart's incredible versatility has seen her tackle iconic roles such as Salome and Ariadne, earning her widespread acclaim and admiration. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and the seemingly limitless potential of her voice make her a standout among the greatest female opera singers of our time.

  • Maria Callas
    2
    2,336 votes
    New York City, Manhattan, USA

    Often referred to as "La Divina," Maria Callas remains one of the most enduring and celebrated sopranos in history. Known for her impeccable vocal technique and unparalleled ability to express emotions through her voice, Callas was able to embody some of opera's most demanding roles, such as Norma and Tosca, with ease. A true icon who revolutionized the world of opera, her passion and commitment to her art form paved the way for future generations of female opera singers. Maria Callas' phenomenal talent and dramatic flair will forever ensure her place among the very best.

  • Montserrat Caballe
    3
    1,719 votes

    From the moment she stepped onto the opera stage, Montserrat Caballé captivated the world with her exquisite bel canto technique and stunning range. Her celestial voice and flawless control could send shivers down the spine of audiences everywhere. As one of the most well-regarded sopranos of the 20th century, Caballé graced the stages of legendary opera houses across the globe, including La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera. Her legendary performances, alongside the likes of Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo, have secured her legacy as one of opera's most unforgettable talents.

  • Leontyne Price
    4
    1,704 votes
    USA, Laurel, Mississippi

    Breaking barriers and setting new standards for vocal excellence, Leontyne Price is a true pioneer among female opera singers. As the first African American to become a leading artist at the Metropolitan Opera, her powerful voice and commanding presence left an indelible mark on her audiences. Revered for her performances as Aida, Leonora, and Tosca, Price’s effortless control and rich, emotional delivery set her apart as a truly exceptional talent. Her impact on the world of opera is undeniable, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of performers.

  • Renata Tebaldi
    5
    1,115 votes

    A voice of unparalleled beauty and richness, Renata Tebaldi's lush soprano was often described as "a voice of angels." With a flawless technique and innate musicality, she effortlessly embodied some of opera's most beloved heroines, such as Desdemona and Mimi. Famed for her renditions of Verdi and Puccini roles, Tebaldi's legendary performances earned her a reputation as one of the most remarkable female opera singers of the 20th century. Her magnificent contributions to the world of opera continue to be cherished and celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

  • Mirella Freni
    6
    592 votes

    Possessing a uniquely warm and expressive voice, Mirella Freni was a darling of the opera world from her debut in the 1950s until her final performance in 2005. Her pristine vocal techniques, coupled with her incredible ability to create deeply emotional connections with her audience, made her a sought-after performer in the most prestigious opera houses across the globe. Known for her definitive portrayals of iconic characters such as Mimi in "La Bohème" and Cio-Cio San in "Madama Butterfly," Freni's legacy as a soprano of exceptional talent and magnetism endures.

  • Christa Ludwig
    7
    291 votes

    With a dark and luxurious mezzo-soprano voice, Christa Ludwig captivated audiences not only with her vocal prowess but also her extraordinary interpretive skills. As a mainstay at the Vienna State Opera and the Metropolitan Opera, Ludwig mesmerized listeners with her remarkable talent for creating vivid and complex characters on stage. From her moving portrayals of Wagner's heroines to her legendary performances as Leonore and Dido, Christa Ludwig's incredible artistry and versatility ensure her status among the all-time greats.

  • Birgit Nilsson
    8
    792 votes
    Sweden, Västra Karup

    A true force of nature, Swedish soprano Birgit Nilsson possessed a voice of staggering power and brilliance. Known for her unparalleled ability to conquer the most demanding of Wagnerian roles, such as Brünnhilde and Isolde, Nilsson's performances were nothing short of awe-inspiring. With her laser-focused vocal precision and seemingly limitless stamina, she took the world of opera by storm during her decades-long career. Birgit Nilsson's remarkable contributions to the art form have left an indelible mark on the history of opera.

  • Shirley Verrett
    9
    485 votes
    USA, New Orleans, Louisiana

    Hailed as one of the most striking and versatile voices of her time, Shirley Verrett's sumptuous mezzo-soprano was matched only by her electric stage presence. A trailblazer in the world of opera, Verrett's magnetic performances of roles such as Carmen, Azucena, and Eboli have left an enduring impression on countless audience members and fellow musicians. Her exceptional tonal quality and impeccable vocal technique secured her place among the all-time greats, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

  • Jessye Norman
    10
    926 votes
    Georgia, USA, Augusta

    With a voice that could fill the grandest of opera houses, Jessye Norman was a truly exceptional talent. Her lustrous soprano, paired with an extraordinary ability to convey deep emotions, earned her a place among the finest female opera singers in history. Norman's breathtaking portrayals of iconic roles such as Aida, Turandot, and Cassandra showcased the power and beauty of her otherworldly instrument. Her unwavering commitment to her craft and the indelible impact of her artistry continue to inspire and captivate audiences.

  • Lucia Popp
    11
    421 votes

    A soprano of breathtaking purity and beauty, Lucia Popp delighted audiences with her vibrant voice and captivating stage presence. As a consummate artist with a singular talent for bringing characters to life on stage, Popp's portrayals of Mozart heroines, such as Pamina and Susanna, left an indelible mark on the world of opera. With her crystal-clear vocal technique and innate musicality, she was able to navigate the most challenging roles with extraordinary grace and finesse. Lucia Popp's luminous voice and enduring legacy will always hold a special place in the hearts of opera lovers.

  • Lotte Lehmann
    12
    309 votes
    Perleberg, Germany

    A legend in her own right, Lotte Lehmann's distinctive voice and impeccable technique left a lasting impression on the world of opera. With her profound interpretations of characters such as Marschallin, Elisabeth, and Sieglinde, Lehmann became a mainstay at the Vienna State Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. Her vibrant stage presence, combined with her innate ability to convey complex emotions through her singing, cemented her status as one of the most extraordinary female opera singers of her time. Lotte Lehmann's unparalleled artistry and devotion to her craft remain an inspiration to future generations of performers.

  • Marilyn Horne
    13
    1,226 votes
    USA, Bradford, Pennsylvania

    Marilyn Horne's extraordinary mezzo-soprano voice, characterized by its incredible agility and richness, firmly established her as a legend in the world of opera. Her unrivaled interpretations of Rossini's heroines and tireless dedication to the art of bel canto have earned her numerous accolades and the admiration of fans worldwide. Known for her masterful and emotive performances, Horne's impressive vocal skills have cemented her status as one of the most esteemed and influential opera singers in history.

  • Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
    14
    595 votes

    Elisabeth Schwarzkopf's remarkable voice and effortless technique established her as one of the most adored sopranos of her era. With her superb artistry and exceptional musicianship, she breathed new life into iconic roles such as the Marschallin in "Der Rosenkavalier" and Donna Elvira in "Don Giovanni." Her innate ability to create unforgettable onstage moments through her singing continues to inspire generations of opera lovers. The undeniable legacy of Elisabeth Schwarzkopf's singing and acting prowess has secured her place among the all-time greats.

  • Grace Bumbry
    15
    571 votes
    USA, St. Louis, Missouri

    Blazing a trail for generations to follow, African American mezzo-soprano Grace Bumbry was a groundbreaking force in the world of opera. With her resplendent voice and magnetic stage presence, she commanded the attention of audiences around the globe. A master of both mezzo and soprano roles, Bumbry's unparalleled versatility and artistry made her a favorite at major opera houses, such as La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera. Her performances as Carmen, Amneris, and Orfeo will be remembered as some of the most spellbinding in the history of the art form.

  • Cecilia Bartoli
    16
    731 votes

     Known for her dazzling coloratura and extraordinary vocal agility, Cecilia Bartoli has established herself as a leading force among today's female opera singers. With her passionate devotion to baroque and bel canto repertoire, Bartoli has played an instrumental role in reviving forgotten works and reintroducing them to enthusiastic audiences worldwide. As both a consummate musician and a captivating performer, her renditions of roles such as Cleopatra and Cenerentola are nothing short of mesmerizing. The enduring legacy of Cecilia Bartoli's artistry and commitment to her craft will continue to resonate with opera fans for generations to come.

  • Rosa Ponselle
    17
    461 votes
    Meriden, Connecticut

    Rosa Ponselle holds a unique place in opera history, as one of the first American-born sopranos to achieve international stardom on the world's most prominent stages. Possessing a voice of extraordinary beauty and power, Ponselle effortlessly conquered some of opera's most demanding roles, such as Carmen and Norma. Known for her impeccable vocal technique and mesmerizing stage presence, Ponselle's legendary performances continue to inspire future generations of female opera singers. Her place among the all-time greats is unquestionable, as she continues to be celebrated for her remarkable talent and artistry.

  • Renee Fleming
    18
    893 votes
    Indiana, Pennsylvania, USA

    As one of the leading sopranos of the modern era, Renée Fleming has consistently captivated audiences with her golden voice and luminous stage presence. Known for her diverse repertoire and flawless technique, Fleming has made her mark on opera stages around the world, tackling roles from Strauss to Verdi with equal aplomb. Her beautiful vocal timbre and emotional depth have made her interpretations of roles such as Rusalka and Violetta truly unforgettable. A living legend in the world of opera, Renée Fleming's extraordinary talent and wizardry on the stage ensure that her place among the greatest female singers remains indisputable.

  • Teresa Berganza
    19
    283 votes

    With her warm, velvety mezzo-soprano and striking stage presence, Teresa Berganza has left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Known for her deeply emotional interpretations of roles such as Cherubino, Rosina, and Cenerentola, Berganza's artistry and vocal prowess have made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike. Her remarkable achievements in the realm of opera have earned her widespread acclaim and solidified her status as one of the most extraordinary female singers of all time.

  • Zinka Milanov
    20
    328 votes

    As one of the foremost sopranos of the 20th century, Zinka Milanov captivated audiences with her unmistakable voice and powerful stage presence. Famed for her remarkable interpretations of Verdi heroines, such as Aida and Desdemona, Milanov's vocal prowess and emotional depth made her a favorite at opera houses around the globe. With her exceptional tonal quality and unparalleled ability to convey the most profound emotions through her singing, Zinka Milanov's impact on the world of opera is truly immeasurable.

  • Kiri Te Kanawa
    21
    1,095 votes
    Gisborne, New Zealand

    With a voice as radiant as her smile, Kiri Te Kanawa quickly established herself as one of the most beloved sopranos of her time. Renowned for her shimmering tonal quality and flawless technique, Te Kanawa's heart-stopping performances in roles such as the Countess in "The Marriage of Figaro" and Desdemona in "Otello" garnered her worldwide acclaim. Her ability to convey the most profound emotions with her exquisite instrument made her a favorite among critics and audiences alike. As one of the most admired female opera singers in history, Kiri Te Kanawa's impact on the world of opera is truly unparalleled.

  • Kirsten Flagstad
    22
    526 votes

    Widely regarded as the definitive Wagnerian soprano of her time, Kirsten Flagstad's powerful voice and commanding stage presence left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Known for her breathtaking interpretations of iconic roles such as Isolde and Brünnhilde, Flagstad's extraordinary vocal talent and dramatic intensity earned her a place among the all-time greats. The lasting impact of her legendary performances continues to inspire countless female opera singers and fans alike.

  • Renata Scotto
    23
    480 votes

    Renowned for her spirited performances and electrifying stage presence, Renata Scotto is a true icon among female opera singers. As a singer and actress of extraordinary depth and versatility, Scotto effortlessly embodied an array of the most iconic roles, from Violetta in "La Traviata" to Madame Butterfly in Puccini's masterpiece. Her impeccable vocal technique and innate ability to convey the most profound emotions through her singing have ensured that her impact on the world of opera will be felt for generations to come.

  • Frederica von Stade
    24
    338 votes
    Somerville, USA, New Jersey

    Frederica von Stade's enchanting mezzo-soprano voice and graceful stage presence have captivated audiences for decades. Known for her tender and emotionally charged performances, von Stade effortlessly conquered a diverse range of roles, from Cherubino in "The Marriage of Figaro" to Mélisande in "Pelléas et Mélisande." Her unwavering commitment to her craft and her exceptional artistry have earned her a cherished place among the all-time greats of opera.

  • Aprile Millo
    25
    409 votes
    New York City, New York

    Aprile Millo's lush, powerful soprano has endeared her to audiences and critics alike, securing her reputation as one of the most outstanding female opera singers of recent decades. With her expert command of the bel canto style and passionate approach to her roles, Millo has earned great acclaim for her performances as Aida, Tosca, and Luisa Miller. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and the seemingly boundless potential of her voice continue to impress and inspire countless opera lovers worldwide.

  • Leonie Rysanek
    26
    305 votes

    Leonie Rysanek's incomparable, dramatic soprano voice set her apart as one of the most electrifying performers of her time. With her commanding stage presence and exceptional vocal prowess, Rysanek's unforgettable portrayals of Strauss and Wagner heroines, such as Sieglinde and Salome, cemented her status as a bona fide opera legend. Known for her strong technique and fearless approach to challenging roles, Rysanek's unique contributions to the world of opera will forever be revered by both critics and fans alike.

  • Lily Pons
    27
    274 votes
    Draguignan, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France

    As one of the leading coloratura sopranos of her era, Lily Pons dazzled audiences with her virtuosic singing and charming stage presence. Admired for her portrayals of roles such as Lucia in "Lucia di Lammermoor" and Lakmé in Delibes' opera, Pons' remarkable vocal abilities and magnetic performances earned her a devoted following. Her lasting impact on the world of opera continues to inspire future generations of female singers.

  • Beverly Sills
    28
    1,036 votes
    Brooklyn, New York, USA

    A soprano with a voice as luminous as her personality, Beverly Sills was a trailblazer in the world of opera. Her glittering coloratura and innate ability to connect with audiences made her a household name in America and beyond. Acclaimed for her portrayals of Donizetti heroines, such as Lucia and Marie, Sills' extraordinary voice and mesmerizing stage presence left a lasting impression on countless listeners. Her impact on the world of opera, both as a performer and an advocate for the art form, remains an inspiration to future generations.

  • Diana Damrau
    29
    513 votes
    Günzburg, Germany

    Diana Damrau's sparkling coloratura and dynamic stage presence have made her one of the most sought-after sopranos of her generation. With a flair for both dramatic and comic roles, she has tackled some of the most challenging roles in the soprano repertoire, such as Queen of the Night in "The Magic Flute" and Violetta in "La Traviata," with resounding success. Her powerful voice, coupled with her passionate performances, continues to enchant audiences and solidify her status as one of the greatest female opera singers in the modern era.

  • Regina Resnik
    30
    238 votes
    New York City, New York

    Regina Resnik's illustrious career spanned more than 40 years, during which she thrilled audiences with her striking voice and dynamic acting abilities. Initially renowned as a soprano, Resnik transitioned to mezzo-soprano roles, showcasing her immense versatility and commanding presence on stage. As a regular performer in major opera houses around the world, her portrayals of iconic characters, such as Carmen, Kundry, and Amneris, secured her legacy as one of the most remarkable and memorable female opera singers in history. Regina Resnik's undeniable talent and dedication to her craft continue to influence and inspire countless performers today.

  • Elina Garanča
    31
    456 votes

    As one of today’s leading mezzo-sopranos, Elīna Garanča captivates audiences with her rich, velvety voice and mesmerizing stage presence. Revered for her portrayals of iconic characters, such as Carmen and Charlotte in "Werther," her exceptional vocal technique and emotional intensity have garnered her widespread acclaim. With her undeniable talent and commanding stage presence, Elīna Garanča's place among the greatest female opera singers is well deserved.

  • Anna Moffo
    32
    668 votes
    USA, Wayne, Pennsylvania

    Possessing a voice of unparalleled beauty and elegance, Anna Moffo lit up the opera stage with her radiant presence. Her sublime soprano and enchanting interpretations of roles such as Violetta in "La Traviata" and Gilda in "Rigoletto" captured the hearts of audiences around the globe. A true icon in the world of opera, Moffo's breathtaking talent and unforgettable performances have ensured her place among the most extraordinary female singers in history.

  • Giulietta Simionato
    33
    216 votes

    Giulietta Simionato's rich mezzo-soprano voice and electrifying performances made her one of the most captivating opera singers of the 20th century. Equally adept at portraying both dramatic and comedic roles, Simionato's incredible vocal prowess and magnetic stage presence enthralled audiences worldwide. As a consummate artist, her legendary performances as characters such as Azucena and Santuzza continue to inspire and influence future generations of female opera singers.

  • Janet Baker
    34
    180 votes
    Hatfield, England
    Dame Janet Abbott Baker (born 21 August 1933) is an English mezzo-soprano best known as an opera, concert, and lieder singer.She was particularly closely associated with baroque and early Italian opera and the works of Benjamin Britten. During her career, which spanned the 1950s to the 1980s, she was considered an outstanding singing actress and widely admired for her dramatic intensity, perhaps best represented in her famous portrayal as Dido, the tragic heroine of Berlioz's magnum opus, Les Troyens. As a concert performer, Dame Janet was noted for her interpretations of the music of Gustav Mahler and Edward Elgar. David Gutman, writing in Gramophone, described her performance of Mahler's Kindertotenlieder as "intimate, almost self-communing."
  • Joan Sutherland
    35
    2,085 votes
    Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

    Joan Sutherland, affectionately known as "La Stupenda," was a true titan in the world of opera. With her dazzling coloratura and seemingly effortless high notes, Sutherland's astounding voice and commanding stage presence left audiences entranced. Her legendary portrayals of roles such as Lucia in "Lucia di Lammermoor" and Norma have earned her a place among the most revered female opera singers of all time. The lasting impact of her talent and dedication to her craft continue to inspire future generations of performers.

  • Régine Crespin
    36
    223 votes

    With a luxuriant, golden-toned voice and compelling stage presence, Régine Crespin was a true force to be reckoned with in the world of opera. Acclaimed for her skillful portrayals of iconic Wagner and Strauss heroines, such as Sieglinde and the Marschallin, Crespin's unique combination of dramatic intensity and vocal finesse earned her a cherished place among the all-time greats. Her considerable achievements in the realm of opera continue to inspire and influence future generations of singers.

  • Nellie Melba
    37
    326 votes
    Richmond, Australia

    As one of the most famous sopranos of her era, Nellie Melba's radiant voice and transcendent stage presence captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Known for her flawless technique and the purity of her silvery tones, Melba's legendary performances as characters like Gilda in "Rigoletto" and Mimi in "La Bohème" continue to be celebrated by opera lovers today. Her illustrious career and enduring impact on the world of opera secure her place among the greatest female opera singers in history.

  • Risë Stevens
    38
    260 votes
    New York, New York, USA

    With a velvety mezzo-soprano voice and a magnetic stage presence, Risë Stevens quickly established herself as one of the most beloved female opera singers of her time. Adored for her portrayals of characters such as Carmen and Orfeo, Stevens' flawless technique and innate ability to connect with audiences have made her a legend in the world of opera. The remarkable legacy of her talent and dedication to her craft continue to inspire future generations of performers.

  • Fiorenza Cossotto
    39
    190 votes

    Hailed as one of the most accomplished mezzo-sopranos of her time, Fiorenza Cossotto enchanted audiences with her rich, powerful voice and luminous stage presence. Talented as both a vocalist and actress, Cossotto's portrayals of roles such as Amneris in "Aida" and Azucena in "Il Trovatore" showcased her exceptional vocal prowess and innate ability to connect with her audience. Fiorenza Cossotto's enduring contributions to the world of opera cement her place among the most celebrated female singers in history.

  • Teresa Stratas
    40
    199 votes

    Teresa Stratas' extraordinary soprano voice and remarkable acting abilities have left an indelible mark on the world of opera. Known for her passionate interpretations of iconic roles, such as Mimi in "La Bohème" and Salome in Strauss's masterpiece, Stratas' emotionally charged performances have earned her the admiration and respect of fans and fellow musicians alike. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and the seemingly boundless potential of her voice make her a standout among the greatest female opera singers of all time.

  • Joyce DiDonato
    41
    374 votes
    Prairie Village, USA, Kansas

    A modern virtuoso, Joyce DiDonato's dazzling mezzo-soprano voice and captivating stage presence have made her one of the most revered female opera singers of today. Famed for her consummate musicianship and ability to breathe new life into both familiar and rarely performed works, DiDonato's stunning performances as characters such as Rosina in "The Barber of Seville" and Sesto in "La Clemenza di Tito" have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following. The undeniable impact of her talent and artistry on the world of opera will certainly endure for years to come.

  • Margaret Price
    42
    193 votes
    Blackwood, United Kingdom

    Renowned for her luminous soprano voice and impeccable artistry, Margaret Price was widely regarded as one of the leading opera singers of her time. Her breathtaking performances as characters such as Fiordiligi in "Così fan tutte" and Desdemona in "Otello" showcased her exceptional vocal technique and emotional depth. The enduring legacy of her talent and dedication to her craft continue to inspire countless fans and performers alike, securing her place among the greatest female opera singers in history.

  • Kathleen Battle
    43
    357 votes
    Portsmouth, Ohio, USA

    A magnificent soprano with an enchanting stage presence, Kathleen Battle's extraordinary voice has dazzled audiences around the globe. Known for her exceptional portrayals of Mozart heroines, such as Susanna in "The Marriage of Figaro" and Pamina in "The Magic Flute," her pristine vocal technique and breathtaking artistry have earned her a beloved place among the greatest female opera singers of all time. With her unwavering dedication to her craft, Kathleen Battle's influence on the world of opera remains profound and enduring.

  • Hildegard Behrens
    44
    160 votes

    Hildegard Behrens' extraordinary dramatic soprano voice and captivating stage presence placed her among the most esteemed female opera singers of her time. Celebrated for her electrifying performances in roles such as Elektra, Brünnhilde, and Isolde, Behrens' technical prowess and emotional intensity left audiences spellbound. A true titan in the world of opera, her enduring legacy and contributions to the art form will continue to inspire future generations of female opera singers.

  • Eileen Farrell
    45
    190 votes
    USA, Connecticut, Willimantic

    With a voice of unparalleled power and beauty, Eileen Farrell established herself as one of the most esteemed sopranos of the 20th century. Renowned for fearless interpretations of dramatic roles such as Medea and Leonora in "La Forza del Destino," her staggering vocal prowess and emotional depth left audiences breathless. A true giant among female opera singers, Farrell's legacy continues to inspire and influence countless performers in the world of opera.

  • Anne Sofie von Otter
    46
    240 votes

    Anne Sofie von Otter's lustrous mezzo-soprano voice and commanding stage presence have made her one of today's most celebrated female opera singers. Praised for her exceptional artistry and versatility, von Otter's unforgettable performances as characters such as Octavian in "Der Rosenkavalier" and Cherubino in "The Marriage of Figaro" continue to enchant audiences worldwide. As a true master of her craft, Anne Sofie von Otter's talent and dedication have left an indelible mark on the world of opera.

  • Claudia Muzio
    47
    220 votes

    With a voice of breathtaking beauty and exquisite emotional depth, Claudia Muzio remains one of the most cherished sopranos of the early 20th century. Known for her intensely moving performances as characters like Violetta and Tosca, Muzio's astonishing vocal prowess and passionate artistry earned her a place in the hearts of opera lovers everywhere. As a true pioneer among female opera singers, Claudia Muzio's enduring influence continues to inspire future generations of performers.

  • Anna Netrebko
    48
    880 votes

    A symbol of modern operatic glamour and allure, Anna Netrebko's lustrous soprano and transformative acting abilities have made her one of today's most acclaimed and sought-after female opera singers. From her iconic portrayals of roles such as Violetta in "La Traviata" and Tatiana in "Eugene Onegin," to her more recent ventures into dramatic repertoire, Netrebko's unyielding commitment to her craft and mesmerizing stage presence continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Her undeniable talent and impact on the world of opera will no doubt ensure her place among the greatest female singers of all time.

  • Deborah Voigt
    49
    283 votes
    Wheeling, Illinois

    Deborah Voigt's powerful soprano voice and striking stage presence have established her as one of the most revered female opera singers of her generation. Acclaimed for her performances in demanding roles such as Wagner's Brünnhilde and Strauss's Ariadne, Voigt's tremendous vocal athleticism and emotional depth have captivated audiences worldwide. A consummate artist, her contributions to the world of opera have earned her a lasting place among the all-time greats.

  • Éva Marton
    50
    299 votes
    Budapest, Hungary
    Éva Marton (born 18 June 1943) is a Hungarian dramatic soprano, particularly known for her operatic portrayals of Puccini's Turandot and Tosca, and Wagnerian roles.
  • Astrid Varnay
    51
    180 votes
    Ibolyka Astrid Maria Varnay (25 April 1918 – 4 September 2006) was a Swedish-born American dramatic soprano of Hungarian descent. She spent most of her career in the United States and Germany. She was one of the leading Wagnerian heroic sopranos of her generation. Her voice on record is readily recognisable by its fiery tone and seemingly limitless upper register.
  • Angela Gheorghiu
    52
    407 votes

    Renowned for her sumptuous soprano voice and passionate stage presence, Angela Gheorghiu has become a modern icon in the world of opera. Acclaimed for her portrayals of roles such as Violetta, Mimi, and Adriana Lecouvreur, Gheorghiu's remarkable vocal talents and ability to connect with audiences have made her a favorite among critics and fans alike. As one of the most celebrated and influential female opera singers of today, Angela Gheorghiu's impact on the world of opera is truly awe-inspiring.

  • Nina Stemme
    53
    205 votes
    Stockholm, Sweden

    As one of today's foremost dramatic sopranos, Nina Stemme's powerful voice and formidable stage presence have made her a force to be reckoned with in the world of opera. Revered for her compelling interpretations of roles such as Brünnhilde in Wagner's "Ring" cycle and Elektra in Strauss's eponymous opera, Stemme's exceptional vocal prowess and artistic fearlessness continue to command the attention of audiences worldwide. As a champion of the dramatic soprano repertoire, her influence on the world of opera is undeniable and lasting.

  • Natalie Dessay
    54
    283 votes
    Natalie Dessay (French: [na.ta.li də.sɛ]; born 19 April 1965) is a French singer and actress who had a highly acclaimed career as an operatic coloratura soprano before leaving the opera stage on 15 October 2013. She received wide acclaim in roles such as Olympia in Les contes d'Hoffmann, the title role in Lakmé, Zerbinetta in Ariadne auf Naxos and the Queen of the Night in Die Zauberflöte. In her later career, she took on roles in the 19-century bel canto repertoire such as Amina in La sonnambula, Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor, Violetta in La traviata and performed Baroque music by composers such as Handel and Bach. Since retiring from opera she has pursued a career in theatre and in concert, where she now performs, besides classical, genres such as jazz and chansons.
  • Jenny Lind
    55
    148 votes
    Stockholm, Sweden
    Johanna Maria "Jenny" Lind (6 October 1820 – 2 November 1887) was a Swedish opera singer, often called the "Swedish Nightingale". One of the most highly regarded singers of the 19th century, she performed in soprano roles in opera in Sweden and across Europe, and undertook an extraordinarily popular concert tour of the United States beginning in 1850. She was a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Music from 1840. Lind became famous after her performance in Der Freischütz in Sweden in 1838. Within a few years, she had suffered vocal damage, but the singing teacher Manuel García saved her voice. She was in great demand in opera roles throughout Sweden and northern Europe during the 1840s, and was closely associated with Felix Mendelssohn. After two acclaimed seasons in London, she announced her retirement from opera at the age of 29. In 1850, Lind went to America at the invitation of the showman P. T. Barnum. She gave 93 large-scale concerts for him and then continued to tour under her own management. She earned more than $350,000 from these concerts, donating the proceeds to charities, principally the endowment of free schools in Sweden. With her new husband, Otto Goldschmidt, she returned to Europe in 1852 where she had three children and gave occasional concerts over the next two decades, settling in England in 1855. From 1882, for some years, she was a professor of singing at the Royal College of Music in London.
  • Edita Gruberová
    56
    276 votes
    Slovakia, Bratislava
    Edita Gruberová (born 23 December 1946), is a Slovak coloratura soprano. She is noted for her great tonal clarity, agility, dramatic power, endurance, and ability to sing high notes with great power and sustained vocal consistency, which made her an ideal Queen of the Night in her early years. In recent years, she has enjoyed huge success with a number of the most important bel canto roles.
  • Carol Vaness
    57
    163 votes
    USA, California, San Diego
    Carol Theresa Vaness (born July 27, 1952) is an American lirico-spinto soprano. Vaness was born in San Diego and launched her professional career in 1977 with the San Francisco Opera. She appeared regularly at the New York City Opera from 1979 to 1983. She made her Metropolitan Opera debut in 1984 and has sung at many of the major opera houses of Europe, including Teatro alla Scala, the Vienna State Opera, Paris Opera, and the Royal Opera House/Covent Garden. In 1993 she performed the role of Duchess Elena in I vespri siciliani with the Washington Concert Opera. She was particularly known for her Mozart operatic roles, but she has performed in a wide range of operas, including the title role in Giacomo Puccini's Manon Lescaut with the Seattle Opera. Her interpretations of Mozart's dramatic heroines, including Fiordiligi in Così fan tutte, Donna Anna and Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni, Elettra in Idomeneo, and Vitellia in La Clemenza di Tito, have been hailed as definitive, and she has become especially identifiable with the role of Tosca, which she performed at the Metropolitan Opera in 2004 opposite Luciano Pavarotti in the legendary tenor's final operatic performance. Vaness made her professional debut as Vitellia for the San Francisco Spring Opera and has been acknowledged as the world's leading interpreter of this role. She has appeared as Vitellia at the Metropolitan Opera, Paris Opera, Royal Opera, Covent Garden, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Liceu, and at the Salzburg Festival and other leading theaters. Among her celebrated television appearances, she has been featured on the Pavarotti Plus and Pavarotti and Friends telecasts from Lincoln Center, as well as the Richard Tucker Gala and In Performance at the White House with members of the New York City Opera. Vaness teaches in the renowned voice department of Indiana University. Her hire came as part of the school's "Commitment to Excellence" program, which also brought the matriculation of Jaime Laredo, André Watts, and Joshua Bell. She is a tenured professor of voice working with individual students as well as conducting the opera workshop classes. She began teaching in 2006, and a number of her students have gone to win major nationwide and international competitions and positions in young artist programs.
  • Eva-Maria Westbroek
    58
    131 votes
    Belfast, United Kingdom
    Eva-Maria Westbroek (born 26 April 1970) is a Dutch soprano opera singer.
  • Lisa Della Casa
    59
    60 votes
    Burgdorf, Switzerland, Switzerland
    Lisa Della Casa (2 February 1919 – 10 December 2012) was a Swiss soprano most admired for her interpretations of major heroines in operas by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Strauss, and of German lieder. She was also described as “the most beautiful woman on the operatic stage”.
  • Amelita Galli-Curuci
    60
    164 votes
    Amelita Galli-Curci (18 November 1882 – 26 November 1963) was an Italian coloratura soprano. She was one of the most popular operatic singers of the 20th century, with her recordings selling in large numbers.
  • Luisa Tetrazzini
    61
    146 votes
    Luisa Tetrazzini (29 June 1871 – 28 April 1940) was an Italian coloratura soprano of great international fame. Tetrazzini's voice was remarkable for its phenomenal flexibility, thrust, steadiness and thrilling tone. She enjoyed a highly successful operatic and concert career in Europe and America from the 1890s through to the 1920s, but her final years were marred by poverty and ill health.
  • Gwyneth Jones
    62
    117 votes
    Pontnewynydd, Wales, UK
    Dame Gwyneth Jones, (born 7 November 1936) is a Welsh operatic dramatic soprano.
  • Geraldine Farrar
    63
    145 votes
    USA, Massachusetts, Melrose
    Alice Geraldine Farrar (February 28, 1882 – March 11, 1967) was an American soprano opera singer and film actress, noted for her beauty, acting ability, and "the intimate timbre of her voice." She had a large following among young women, who were nicknamed "Gerry-flappers".
  • Adelina Patti
    64
    155 votes
    Adelina Patti (10 February 1843 – 27 September 1919) was an Italian-French 19th-century opera singer, earning huge fees at the height of her career in the music capitals of Europe and America. She first sang in public as a child in 1851, and gave her last performance before an audience in 1914. Along with her near contemporaries Jenny Lind and Thérèse Tietjens, Patti remains one of the most famous sopranos in history, owing to the purity and beauty of her lyrical voice and the unmatched quality of her bel canto technique. The composer Giuseppe Verdi, writing in 1877, described her as being perhaps the finest singer who had ever lived and a "stupendous artist". Verdi's admiration for Patti's talent was shared by numerous music critics and social commentators of her era.
  • Helen Traubel
    65
    133 votes
    USA, St. Louis, Missouri
    Helen Francesca Traubel (June 16, 1899 – July 28, 1972) was an American opera and concert singer. A dramatic soprano, she was best known for her Wagnerian roles, especially those of Brünnhilde and Isolde.Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, she began her career as a concert singer and went on to sing at the Metropolitan Opera from 1937 to 1953. Starting in the 1950s, she also developed a career as a nightclub and cabaret singer as well as appearing in television, films and musical theatre. Traubel spent her later years in Santa Monica, California, where she died at the age of 73.
  • Elisabeth Schumann
    66
    141 votes
    Elisabeth Schumann (13 June 1888 – 23 April 1952) was a German soprano who sang in opera, operetta, oratorio, and lieder. She left a substantial legacy of recordings.
  • Licia Albanese
    67
    141 votes
    Licia Albanese (July 22, 1909 – August 15, 2014) was an Italian-born American operatic soprano. Noted especially for her portrayals of the lyric heroines of Verdi and Puccini, Albanese was a leading artist with the Metropolitan Opera from 1940 to 1966. She also made many recordings and was chairwoman of The Licia Albanese-Puccini Foundation, which is dedicated to assisting young artists and singers.
  • Roberta Peters
    68
    171 votes
    New York, New York, USA
    Roberta Peters (May 4, 1930 – January 18, 2017) was an American coloratura soprano. One of the most prominent American singers to achieve lasting fame and success in opera, Peters is noted for her 35-year association with the Metropolitan Opera Company in New York, among the longest such associations between a singer and a company in opera. She was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1998.
  • Eleanor Steber
    69
    139 votes
    USA, West Virginia, Wheeling
    Eleanor Steber (July 17, 1914 – October 3, 1990) was an American operatic soprano. Steber is noted as one of the first major opera stars to have achieved the highest success with training and a career based in the United States.
  • Magda Olivero
    70
    121 votes
    Magda Olivero, née Maria Maddalena Olivero (25 March 1910 – 8 September 2014), was an Italian operatic soprano. Her career started in 1932 when she was 22, and spanned five decades establishing her "as an important link between the era of the verismo composers and the modern opera stage". She has been regarded as "one of the greatest singers of the twentieth century".
  • Anneliese Rothenberger
    71
    37 votes

    Anneliese Rothenberger

    Mannheim, Germany
    Anneliese Rothenberger (19 June 1924 – 24 May 2010) was a German operatic soprano who had an active international performance career which spanned from 1943 to 1983. She specialized in the lyric coloratura soprano repertoire, and was particularly admired for her interpretations of the works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Richard Strauss.
  • Isabel Leonard
    72
    41 votes
    New York, New York, USA
    Isabel Leonard (born February 18, 1982) is an American mezzo-soprano opera singer. She is of Argentine ancestry on her mother's side.Leonard was born in New York City. For five years she sang with the Manhattan School of Music children's chorus. She attended the Joffrey Ballet School. She is a graduate of The Cathedral School of St. John the Divine and the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. She earned her Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees at the Juilliard School, where she was a pupil of Edith Bers. She has also studied with Marilyn Horne, Brian Zeger, Warren Jones, and Margo Garrett. She is a 2005 winner of the Marilyn Horne Foundation Vocal Competition. In 2006, she received The Licia Albanese-Puccini Foundation Award. She was also chosen as a recipient of a Movado Future Legends award in 2006. In 2013, she received the Richard Tucker Music Foundation Award. In New York, Leonard has performed with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and with the Juilliard Opera Center. Her first appearance with the New York Philharmonic was in a concert version of Leonard Bernstein's Candide, and she later sang the part of the Squirrel in L'enfant et les sortilèges in concert with the orchestra and Lorin Maazel. In February 2007, Leonard made her professional operatic stage debut as Stéphano in Roméo et Juliette. In September 2007, she made her Metropolitan Opera debut in the same role. Leonard made her debut with Santa Fe Opera as Cherubino in 2008. Her commercial recordings include a DVD recording for Euroarts as Dorabella in the 2009 Salzburg Festival production of Così fan tutte. On April 26, 2014, Leonard sang the role of Dorabella in a performance at the Metropolitan Opera that was transmitted worldwide as part of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD program. In February 2011, Leonard made her Vienna State Opera debut singing Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro, returning to the venue in January 2012 as Rosina in Il barbiere di Siviglia. 2014 to 2016 Leonard and Sharon Isbin performed a well-received series of eleven soprano/guitar-duet recitals, including at Zankel Hall (Carnegie Hall).Leonard won two Grammy Awards for Best Opera Recording: in 2014 for Thomas Adès' The Tempest, and in 2016 for Maurice Ravel's L'enfant et les sortilèges. Leonard married baritone Teddy Tahu Rhodes in December 2008; they are now divorced. Based in New York City, Leonard raises their son, Teo, born 17 May 2010.
  • Emma Kirkby
    73
    91 votes
    England, Cambridge
    Dame Carolyn Emma Kirkby, (born 26 February 1949) is an English soprano and one of the world's most renowned early music specialists. She has sung on over 100 recordings. Her entry in The Grove Book of Opera Singers (2008) reads:Her uncommonly pure, crystalline voice, deployed with minimal vibrato, her natural declamation, agile coloratura and her sensitivity to words have been widely admired by interpreters of early, Renaissance and Baroque music and have served as a model for many specialists in this repertory.
  • Anna Tomowa-Sintow
    74
    157 votes
    Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
    Anna Tomowa-Sintow (Bulgarian: Анна Томова-Синтова, by official transliteration Anna Tomova-Sintova, born September 22, 1941, in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria) is a Bulgarian soprano who has sung to great acclaim in all the major opera houses around the world in a repertoire that includes Mozart, Rossini, Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, and Strauss. She enjoyed a particularly close professional relationship with conductor Herbert von Karajan from 1973 until the conductor's death in 1989.
  • June Anderson
    75
    140 votes
    Boston, USA, Massachusetts
    June Anderson (born December 30, 1952) is a Grammy Award-winning American dramatic coloratura soprano. Originally known for bel canto performances of Rossini, Donizetti, and Vincenzo Bellini, she was the first non-Italian ever to win the prestigious Bellini d'Oro prize.Subsequently, she has extended her repertoire to include a wide variety of other roles, including those from the Russian repertoire and works by Richard Strauss. In 2008, Anderson was elevated to "Commandeur" of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Government and in 2007 received a "Victoire d'honneur" at the "Victoires de la Musique Classique" in Paris.Anderson has performed in noted opera houses including La Scala, Covent Garden, La Fenice, Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago and Colón Theater. She has collaborated with conductors Leonard Bernstein, James Levine, Charles Dutoit, Zubin Mehta, Riccardo Muti, Seiji Ozawa, Giuseppe Sinopoli, Kent Nagano and Michael Tilson Thomas.
  • Lorraine Hunt Lieberson
    76
    92 votes

    Lorraine Hunt Lieberson

    California
    Lorraine Hunt Lieberson (March 1, 1954 – July 3, 2006) was an American mezzo-soprano. She was noted for her performances of both Baroque era and contemporary works. Her career path to becoming a singer was unconventional – formerly a professional violist, Lieberson did not shift her full-time focus to singing until she was in her thirties.
  • Patricia Janeckova
    77
    27 votes

    Patricia Janeckova

  • Martha Mödl
    78
    136 votes
    Nuremberg, Germany
    Martha Mödl (22 March 1912, Nuremberg – 17 December 2001, Stuttgart) was a German soprano, and later a mezzo-soprano. She specialized in large dramatic roles such as Isolde, Brünnhilde, and particularly Kundry, and is considered, along with Astrid Varnay and Birgit Nilsson, one of the three major postwar Wagner sopranos. She was among the preeminent Wagner sopranos—and most compelling singing actresses—of the twentieth century. She was celebrated for her highly individualized interpretations, exceptional acting ability, intense stage presence, and "rich, sexy voice."Her career peaked in the early and mid-1950s, which included her Brünnhilde in Wilhelm Furtwängler's famous 1954 studio recording of Die Walküre and his 1953 live recording of Der Ring des Nibelungen (his only uncut recording of the cycle), along with the title role from Fidelio with the same conductor also in 1953 (at first live and then in studio), and Isolde in Herbert von Karajan's 1952 Tristan und Isolde, live from Bayreuth. There have been fully ten recordings of her Kundry released commercially, most associated with the Bayreuth Festival, all from 1949–59. Although she is most known for her portrayals of Wagner's major heroines from 1951–55, her continuous performing career (as mezzo-soprano after the 1950s) lasted in excess of half a century, well into the singer's eighties, through which her acting abilities remained intact.
  • Ewa Podleś
    79
    155 votes

    Ewa Podleś

    Second Polish Republic, Warsaw
    Ewa Podleś (Polish: [ˈɛva ˈpɔdlɛɕ]; born April 26, 1952) is a Polish coloratura contralto singer who has had an active international career both on the opera stage and in recital. She is known for the agility of her voice and a vocal range which spans more than three octaves.
  • Laura Bretan
    80
    97 votes

    Laura Bretan

    Chicago, United States Of America
  • Christine Goerke is a Grammy Award winning American dramatic soprano who has performed with many of the world's best opera companies, orchestras, and musical ensembles.
  • Hilde Gueden
    82
    22 votes

    Hilde Gueden

    Vienna, Austria
    The Austrian soprano Hilde Gueden, or Güden (15 September 1917 – 17 September 1988), was one of the most appreciated Straussian and Mozartian sopranos of her day. Her youthful and lively interpretations made her an ideal interpreter of roles like Zerbinetta in Ariadne auf Naxos and Susanna in Le nozze di Figaro.
  • Nadine Sierra
    83
    30 votes
    Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    Nadine Sierra (born May 14, 1988) is an American soprano. She is most well known for her interpretation of Gilda in Verdi's Rigoletto, and Lucia in Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor. Currently performing in leading roles in the top opera houses around the world, she received the 1st Prize and People's Choice Award 2013 at the Neue Stimmen competition, is the 2017 Richard Tucker Music Foundation Award Winner, and was awarded the Beverly Sills Artists Award in 2018. Her debut album on the Universal Music Group label, There's a Place for Us, was released on August 24, 2018.
  • Aida Garifullina
    84
    43 votes

    Aida Garifullina

  • C. T. K. Chari
    85
    11 votes

    C. T. K. Chari

    Chittoor, India
    C. T. K. Chari (5 June 1909 – 5 January 1993) was Head of the Department of Philosophy at Madras Christian College from 1958 to 1969 and the most prominent among contemporary Indian philosophers who paid close attention to psi phenomena. Chari published extensively on extremely diverse topics, such as logic, linguistics, information theory, mathematics, quantum physics, philosophy of mind, and, of course, psi research.
  • https://www.pearltrees.com/trongnghia19991201/soi-trung-nhanh-chong-chinh/id59787079
    86
    14 votes

    https://www.pearltrees.com/trongnghia19991201/soi-trung-nhanh-chong-chinh/id59787079

  • 1.Ketquatructiep.org soi cầu, dự đoán kết quả siêu nhanh và chính xác Trang web Ketquatructiep.org hiện là trang web chuyên cập nhật tin tức, soi cầu, thống kê, dự đoán và hướng dẫn khách hàng về kết quả xổ số 3 miền hoàn toàn miễn phí, Dự đoán, soi cầu kết quả xổ số Miền Bắc Dự đoán, soi cầu kết quả xổ số Miền Trung Dự đoán, soi cầu kết quả xổ số Miền Nam,  Hiện tại chúng tôi liên tục cập nhập, xsmb, soi cầu xsmb, thống kê xsmb hướng dẫn cách nuôi đề xsmb, được cập nhật hàng ngày tại ketquatruc
    87
    14 votes

    1.Ketquatructiep.org soi cầu, dự đoán kết quả siêu nhanh và chính xác Trang web Ketquatructiep.org hiện là trang web chuyên cập nhật tin tức, soi cầu, thống kê, dự đoán và hướng dẫn khách hàng về kết quả xổ số 3 miền hoàn toàn miễn phí, Dự đoán, soi cầu kết quả xổ số Miền Bắc Dự đoán, soi cầu kết quả xổ số Miền Trung Dự đoán, soi cầu kết quả xổ số Miền Nam, Hiện tại chúng tôi liên tục cập nhập, xsmb, soi cầu xsmb, thống kê xsmb hướng dẫn cách nuôi đề xsmb, được cập nhật hàng ngày tại ketquatruc