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71+ Iconic Soprano Singers You Should Know

Soprano Singers

Music lovers are often attracted to the high, clear tones of sopranos. These talented singers can give rise to powerful emotions and leave audiences in awe.

However, many people struggle to name more than a few famous sopranos, missing out on a world of beautiful music.

This article will introduce you to over 71+ iconic soprano singers who have made their mark on the music world.

From opera to pop, classical to contemporary, we’ll explore a diverse range of voices that have shaped the musical landscape.

Get ready to discover new favorites and learn about the remarkable talents of these sopranos.

Whether you’re a casual listener or a devoted fan, this list will expand your musical horizons and give you plenty of new artists to explore.

Top Iconic Soprano Singers

1. Maria Callas

Maria_Callas

Maria Callas is often regarded as one of the most influential opera singers of the 20th century. She is known for her dramatic interpretations and vocal range and for bringing a new level of artistry to opera performances.

  • Birth Date: December 2, 1923
  • Major Albums:The Art of Maria Callas, La Divina, Callas at La Scala
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, numerous acclaimed performances in Tosca and Norma
  • Years Active: 1941–1977

2. Renée Fleming

Renee_Fleming

Renée Fleming is a celebrated American soprano renowned for her performances in both opera and classical music. She is often referred to as “the people’s diva” due to her popularity and versatility.

  • Birth Date: February 14, 1959
  • Major Albums:The Beautiful Voice, Homage: The Age of the Diva, Dark Hope
  • Major Achievements: Four Grammy Awards, National Medal of Arts
  • Years Active: 1986–present

3.Joan Sutherland

Joan_Sutherland

Joan Sutherland, often called “La Stupenda,” was known for her exceptional bel canto technique and was one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century.

  • Birth Date: November 7, 1926
  • Major Albums:The Art of the Prima Donna, Joan Sutherland Sings Famous Operatic Arias
  • Major Achievements: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1947–1990

4. Leontyne Price

Leontyne_Price

Leontyne Price is one of the first African-American opera singers to gain international acclaim. Her rich voice and powerful performances made her a beloved figure in opera.

  • Birth Date: February 10, 1927
  • Major Albums:Leontyne Price at Carnegie Hall, Verdi: Aida
  • Major Achievements: Presidential Medal of Freedom, 13 Grammy Awards
  • Years Active: 1952–1997

5. Anna Netrebko

Anna_Netrebko

Anna Netrebko is a Russian soprano celebrated for her lush voice and strong stage presence. She has become a fixture on the international opera scene.

  • Birth Date: September 18, 1971
  • Major Albums:Verismo, Opera Arias
  • Major Achievements: International Opera Award for Best Female Singer, numerous leading roles in major opera houses
  • Years Active: 1994–present

6. Montserrat Caballé

Montserrat_Caballe

Montserrat Caballé, famous for her pure and powerful voice, is one of the most iconic sopranos from Spain. She is remembered for her tremendous range and versatility.

  • Birth Date: April 12, 1933
  • Major Albums:Montserrat Caballé sings Bellini, Prima Donna
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Solo, Princess of Asturias Award for the Arts
  • Years Active: 1956–2018

7. Jessye Norman

Jessye_Norman

Jessye Norman was an American soprano known for her rich, dramatic voice. She excelled in both operatic and recital performances, with an extensive career that spanned decades.

  • Birth Date: September 15, 1945
  • Major Albums:Sacred Songs, The Jessye Norman Collection
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors
  • Years Active: 1968–2019

8. Kiri Te Kanawa

Kiri_Te_Kanawa

Kiri Te Kanawa is a New Zealand soprano known for her interpretations of Mozart, Strauss, and Verdi. Her smooth and elegant voice has won her international acclaim.

  • Birth Date: March 6, 1944
  • Major Albums:Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro, Ave Maria
  • Major Achievements: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1968–2017

9. Birgit Nilsson

Birgit_Nilsson

Birgit Nilsson was a Swedish soprano renowned for her powerful voice, especially in Wagnerian operas. She is often considered one of the greatest dramatic sopranos of all time.

  • Birth Date: May 17, 1918
  • Major Albums:Birgit Nilsson: The Great Live Recordings, Wagner: Tristan und Isolde
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Classical Album, numerous roles at Bayreuth Festival
  • Years Active: 1946–1984

10. Lucia Popp

Lucia_Popp

Lucia Popp was a Slovak soprano known for her interpretations of Mozart and Richard Strauss. She was celebrated for her bright, quick voice and impeccable technique.

  • Birth Date: November 12, 1939
  • Major Albums:The Art of Lucia Popp, Mozart: The Magic Flute
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording, frequent performances at major opera houses
  • Years Active: 1963–1993

11. Elisabeth Schwarzkopf

Elisabeth_Schwarzkopf

Elisabeth Schwarzkopf was a German-born soprano known for her refined vocal artistry. She was a key interpreter of the works of Richard Strauss and Mozart, gaining worldwide fame for her impeccable technique and expressive voice.

  • Birth Date: December 9, 1915
  • Major Albums:The Elisabeth Schwarzkopf Songbook, Richard Strauss: Four Last Songs
  • Major Achievements: Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Gramophone Hall of Fame inductee
  • Years Active: 1938–1979

12. Beverly Sills

Beverly_Sills

Beverly Sills was among the most beloved American sopranos, known for her engaging stage presence and warm vocal tone. She was particularly famous for her interpretations of Donizetti and Mozart operas.

  • Birth Date: May 25, 1929
  • Major Albums:The Art of Beverly Sills, Beverly Sills sings Mozart and Donizetti
  • Major Achievements: Kennedy Center Honors, Chairman of the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1947–1980

13. Mirella Freni

Mirella_Freni

Mirella Freni was an Italian soprano renowned for her beautiful and natural voice, which made her a favorite in the operatic world.

She specialized in Verdi and Puccini roles and became an icon for her interpretations of romantic opera heroines.

  • Birth Date: February 27, 1935
  • Major Albums:Mirella Freni: A Life Devoted to Opera, Puccini: La Bohème
  • Major Achievements: Italian Legion of Honour, Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1955–2005

14. Cecilia Bartoli

Cecilia_Bartoli

Cecilia Bartoli is an Italian mezzo-soprano celebrated for her virtuosic technique, particularly in baroque and bel canto repertoire. She has gained international recognition for her unique vocal color and passionate performances.

  • Birth Date: June 4, 1966
  • Major Albums:Maria, Mission, Sacrificium
  • Major Achievements: Multiple Grammy Awards, Polar Music Prize
  • Years Active: 1987–present

15. Kathleen Battle

Kathleen_Battle

Kathleen Battle is an American soprano known for her agile, light voice, which made her an acclaimed interpreter of Mozart and Handel. She is also praised for her ability to cross over into spiritual and gospel music.

  • Birth Date: August 13, 1948
  • Major Albums:Kathleen Battle: The Collection, So Many Stars
  • Major Achievements: Five Grammy Awards, NAACP Image Award
  • Years Active: 1972–present

16. Elīna Garanča

Elina_Garanca

Elīna Garanča is a Latvian mezzo-soprano known for her velvet voice and exceptional control. She has become a favorite in major opera houses, especially for her portrayals of Carmen and other strong operatic characters.

  • Birth Date: September 16, 1976
  • Major Albums:Bel Canto, Romantique
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award for Female Singer of the Year, MIDEM Classical Award
  • Years Active: 1999–present

17. Edita Gruberová

Edita_Gruberova

Edita Gruberová was a Slovak coloratura soprano who was highly regarded for her extraordinary vocal flexibility and control. Her portrayals of bel canto heroines remain some of the most memorable performances in opera history.

  • Birth Date: December 23, 1946
  • Major Albums:Edita Gruberová: The Art of Bel Canto, Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor
  • Major Achievements: Austrian Kammersängerin title, Grammy Award nominee
  • Years Active: 1968–2019

18. Angela Gheorghiu

Angela_Gheorghiu

Angela Gheorghiu is a Romanian soprano known for her rich voice and glamorous stage presence. Her performances of Verdi, Puccini, and French operas have attracted audiences worldwide.

  • Birth Date: September 7, 1965
  • Major Albums:Verdi Heroines, My Puccini
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award, Gramophone Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1990–present

19. Victoria de los Ángeles

Victoria_de_los_Angeles

Victoria de los Ángeles was a Spanish soprano admired for her warmth and sensitivity in operatic and recital performances. She was celebrated for her interpretations of French and Spanish operas.

  • Birth Date: November 1, 1923
  • Major Albums:Carmen, Songs of Spain
  • Major Achievements: Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic, Gold Medal of Fine Arts (Spain)
  • Years Active: 1945–1987

20. Diana Damrau

Diana_Damrau

Diana Damrau is a German soprano celebrated for her remarkable vocal agility and expressive performances, especially in coloratura roles. She has become one of the most sought-after sopranos of her generation.

  • Birth Date: May 31, 1971
  • Major Albums:Mozart: The Magic Flute, Liszt: The Complete Songs
  • Major Achievements: Bavarian Kammersängerin title, Opera News Award
  • Years Active: 1995–present

21. Erika Köth

Erika_Koth

Erika Köth was a German coloratura soprano renowned for her sparkling high notes and technical precision. She was particularly admired for her performances in Mozart and Strauss operas.

  • Birth Date: September 15, 1925
  • Major Albums:Die Zauberflöte, Ariadne auf Naxos
  • Major Achievements: Bavarian Kammersängerin, Golden Record Award
  • Years Active: 1948–1980

22. Emma Kirkby

Emma_Kirkby

Emma Kirkby is an English soprano widely regarded as one of the finest interpreters of early music. Her light and clear voice made her a favorite in baroque and Renaissance performances.

  • Birth Date: February 26, 1949
  • Major Albums:A Feather on the Breath of God, Purcell: Odes and Welcome Songs
  • Major Achievements: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Gramophone Award for Early Music
  • Years Active: 1971–present

23. Natalie Dessay

Natalie_Dessay

Natalie Dessay is a French soprano known for her coloratura roles and acting skills. Her portrayals of characters like Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor brought her international acclaim.

  • Birth Date: April 19, 1965
  • Major Albums:Pictures of America, Mozart: The Magic Flute
  • Major Achievements: Chevalier of the Legion of Honour, Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1989–2013 (Opera), continues in recitals

24. Arleen Auger

Arleen_Auger

Arleen Auger was an American soprano known for her lyrical tone and versatility. She excelled in opera and art song, and her performances were celebrated for their clarity and emotional depth.

  • Birth Date: September 13, 1939
  • Major Albums:Bach: Mass in B minor, Handel: Messiah
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Solo, posthumous Gramophone Hall of Fame induction
  • Years Active: 1967–1993

25. Carol Vaness

Carol_Vaness

Carol Vaness is an American soprano renowned for her dramatic interpretations in the operas of Mozart and Puccini. She has enjoyed a long career on the world’s top stages.

  • Birth Date: July 27, 1952
  • Major Albums:Don Giovanni, La Bohème
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording, Metropolitan Opera regular
  • Years Active: 1977–present

26. Renata Tebaldi

Renata_Tebaldi

Renata Tebaldi was an Italian lyric soprano famous for her full, rich voice. She was often considered Maria Callas’s vocal rival, with both excelling in their unique ways.

  • Birth Date: February 1, 1922
  • Major Albums:Verdi: Aida, Puccini: Tosca
  • Major Achievements: Kennedy Center Honors, Golden Disc Award
  • Years Active: 1944–1976

27. Joan Carlyle

Joan_Carlyle

Joan Carlyle was an English soprano known for her versatility and long association with the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. She was highly regarded for her performances in both light and dramatic roles.

  • Birth Date: April 6, 1931
  • Major Albums:Puccini: La Bohème, Mozart: Le Nozze di Figaro
  • Major Achievements: Regular performer at Royal Opera House, Laurence Olivier Award nominee
  • Years Active: 1955–1984

28. Maria Guleghina

Maria_Guleghina

Maria Guleghina is a Russian-Ukrainian soprano known for her dramatic voice and powerful stage presence. Due to her vocal strength, she is often cast in Verdi and Puccini operas.

  • Birth Date: August 9, 1959
  • Major Albums:Puccini: Tosca, Verdi: Macbeth
  • Major Achievements: Maria Zamboni Award, multiple performances at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1985–present

29. Karita Mattila

Karita_Mattila

Karita Mattila is a Finnish soprano acclaimed for her interpretations of roles in works by composers like Wagner and Strauss. Her emotional intensity and powerful voice have made her a standout performer.

  • Birth Date: September 5, 1960
  • Major Albums:Fidelio, Salome
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording, Royal Philharmonic Society Singer Award
  • Years Active: 1983–present

30. Barbara Bonney

Barbara_Bonney

Barbara Bonney is an American soprano known for her pure tone and elegant phrasing, particularly in the lieder and operatic repertoire of Mozart and Strauss. She has performed in leading roles on major stages worldwide.

  • Birth Date: April 14, 1956
  • Major Albums:Mozart: The Magic Flute, Strauss: Four Last Songs
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award, Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Performance
  • Years Active: 1980–present

31. Margaret Price

Margaret_Price

Margaret Price was a Welsh soprano known for her extraordinary vocal purity and technical prowess, particularly in Mozart and Verdi operas. Her performances were marked by elegance and emotional depth.

  • Birth Date: April 13, 1941
  • Major Albums:Verdi: Requiem, Mozart: Don Giovanni
  • Major Achievements: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1962–1999

32. Patricia Racette

Patricia_Racette

Patricia Racette is an American soprano praised for her expressive and dramatic performances. She is a sought-after performer for roles in Puccini and Verdi operas.

  • Birth Date: June 23, 1965
  • Major Albums:La Bohème, Madama Butterfly
  • Major Achievements: Opera News Award, Richard Tucker Award
  • Years Active: 1988–present

33. Ailyn Pérez

Ailyn_Perez

Ailyn Pérez is an American lyric soprano known for her warm, expressive voice and charismatic stage presence. She has gained international recognition for interpreting roles in Italian and French operas.

  • Birth Date: August 15, 1979
  • Major Albums:Love Duets, La Traviata
  • Major Achievements: Richard Tucker Award, Beverly Sills Award
  • Years Active: 2005–present

34. Lisa Della Casa

Lisa_Della_Casa

Lisa Della Casa was a Swiss soprano renowned for her interpretations of Mozart and Strauss. She was particularly celebrated for her performances of the role of Arabella in Arabella.

  • Birth Date: February 2, 1919
  • Major Albums:Strauss: Four Last Songs, Mozart: Le Nozze di Figaro
  • Major Achievements: Kammersängerin of Vienna, prestigious roles at the Salzburg Festival
  • Years Active: 1941–1974

35. Elizabeth Futral

Elizabeth_Futral

Elizabeth Futral is an American coloratura soprano known for her flexibility and range. She excels in baroque and contemporary opera and is notable in operas by Handel and Donizetti.

  • Birth Date: September 27, 1963
  • Major Albums:La Traviata, Lucia di Lammermoor
  • Major Achievements: Richard Tucker Award, multiple performances at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1989–present

36. Sondra Radvanovsky

Sondra_Radvanovsky

Sondra Radvanovsky is a Canadian-American soprano renowned for her powerful voice and emotional depth, particularly in Verdi operas. She is considered one of the leading Verdi sopranos of her generation.

  • Birth Date: April 11, 1969
  • Major Albums:Verdi: Il Trovatore, Norma
  • Major Achievements: Metropolitan Opera Beverly Sills Award, Grammy Award nominee
  • Years Active: 1996–present

37. Anja Harteros

Anja_Harteros

Anja Harteros is a German soprano known for her dramatic voice and attractive stage presence, especially in roles by Wagner, Strauss, and Verdi. Her rich voice has made her a staple in major European opera houses.

  • Birth Date: July 23, 1972
  • Major Albums:Verdi: La Traviata, Wagner: Die Walküre
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award for Female Singer of the Year, Bayerische Kammersängerin
  • Years Active: 1996–present

38. Roberta Peters

Roberta_Peters

Roberta Peters was an American soprano known for her long association with the Metropolitan Opera. She had a clear, agile voice and excelled in roles by Mozart and Verdi.

  • Birth Date: May 4, 1930
  • Major Albums:The Art of Roberta Peters, Mozart: Le Nozze di Figaro
  • Major Achievements: National Medal of Arts, honored for over 500 performances at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1950–1985

39. Marjorie Lawrence

Marjorie_Lawrence

Marjorie Lawrence was an Australian soprano celebrated for her interpretations of Wagnerian operas. Despite suffering from polio, she continued to perform and inspire audiences with determination.

  • Birth Date: February 17, 1907
  • Major Albums:Wagner: Tristan und Isolde, Die Walküre
  • Major Achievements: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, the subject of the film Interrupted Melody
  • Years Active: 1928–1952

40. Tiana Lemnitz

Tiana_Lemnitz

Tiana Lemnitz was a German lyric soprano, particularly admired for her performances in Mozart and Wagner operas. She was praised for her lyrical phrasing and emotional expression.

  • Birth Date: October 26, 1897
  • Major Albums:Mozart: Die Zauberflöte, Wagner: Lohengrin
  • Major Achievements: Kammersängerin of Berlin, frequent performances at the Bayreuth Festival
  • Years Active: 1922–1957

41. Helen Donath

Helen_Donath

Helen Donath is an American lyric soprano known for her versatility in operatic, concert, and recital performances. She gained acclaim for her performances of Mozart and Strauss and was celebrated for her sweet, pure tone.

  • Birth Date: July 10, 1940
  • Major Albums:Mozart: Die Zauberflöte, Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier
  • Major Achievements: Bayerische Kammersängerin, Grammy Award nominee
  • Years Active: 1961–present

42. Pilar Lorengar

Pilar_Lorengar

Pilar Lorengar was a Spanish soprano known for her beautiful and flexible voice. She excelled in Italian and German opera, particularly for her interpretations of Verdi and Mozart.

  • Birth Date: January 16, 1928
  • Major Albums:Verdi: La Traviata, Mozart: Don Giovanni
  • Major Achievements: Berlin Kammersängerin, recipient of the Gold Medal of Fine Arts (Spain)
  • Years Active: 1950–1991

43. Sarah Brightman

Sarah_Brightman

Sarah Brightman is an English classical crossover soprano known for performing in musical theatre and opera. She is famous for originating the role of Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera.

  • Birth Date: August 14, 1960
  • Major Albums:Eden, Symphony, Hymn
  • Major Achievements: Billboard Music Awards, multiple platinum albums
  • Years Active: 1973–present

44. Margaret Sheridan

Margaret_Sheridan

Margaret Sheridan was an Irish soprano, celebrated for her dramatic roles, particularly in Italian opera. Her powerful voice and dynamic style earned her acclaim in Verdi and Puccini operas.

  • Birth Date: October 15, 1889
  • Major Albums:Verdi: La Traviata, Puccini: Tosca
  • Major Achievements: Frequent performer at La Scala, known for her portrayal of Tosca
  • Years Active: 1918–1934

45. Isobel Baillie

Isobel_Baillie

Isobel Baillie was a Scottish soprano famous for her oratorio performances, particularly in Handel’s Messiah. Her light, lyrical voice suited baroque and classical music.

  • Birth Date: March 9, 1895
  • Major Albums:Handel: Messiah, Elgar: The Dream of Gerontius
  • Major Achievements: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, frequent oratorio performances worldwide
  • Years Active: 1923–1951

46. Emma Matthews

Emma_Matthews

Emma Matthews is an Australian soprano known for her agile voice and exceptional technique, particularly in bel canto roles. She has performed in major operatic productions across Australia and internationally.

  • Birth Date: 1970
  • Major Albums:Mozart: Don Giovanni, Handel: Giulio Cesare
  • Major Achievements: Helpmann Award for Best Female Performer in Opera, Green Room Award
  • Years Active: 1991–present

47. Fanny Heldy

Fanny_Heldy

Fanny Heldy was a Belgian soprano known for her warm, lyrical voice. She was a prominent figure in the French opera scene during the early 20th century, particularly excelling in Massenet and Puccini roles.

  • Birth Date: February 29, 1888
  • Major Albums:Manon, Madama Butterfly
  • Major Achievements: Leading roles at the Opéra Garnier, awarded the Legion of Honour (France)
  • Years Active: 1910–1938

48. Florence Easton

Florence_Easton

Florence Easton was an English soprano with a wide vocal range, performing over 100 different roles in her career. She was particularly known for her versatility and her success in both Wagnerian and Italian opera.

  • Birth Date: October 25, 1882
  • Major Albums:Puccini: Tosca, Wagner: Tristan und Isolde
  • Major Achievements: Performed at the world premiere of Puccini’s Turandot as Liù, Grammy Award nominee
  • Years Active: 1903–1936

49. Kirsten Flagstad

Kirsten_Flagstad

Kirsten Flagstad was a Norwegian soprano celebrated as one of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of all time. Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence made her a legend in Wagner operas.

  • Birth Date: July 12, 1895
  • Major Albums:Wagner: Tristan und Isolde, Wagner: Die Walküre
  • Major Achievements: Commander of the Order of St. Olav (Norway), Grammy Award winner
  • Years Active: 1913–1955

50. Claudia Muzio

Claudia_Muzio

Claudia Muzio was an Italian soprano known for her deeply emotional interpretations and warm voice. She was highly regarded in verismo operas and was beloved for her portrayal of Tosca.

  • Birth Date: February 7, 1889
  • Major Albums:Puccini: Tosca, Verdi: Aida
  • Major Achievements: Leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera and La Scala, pioneer of early operatic recordings
  • Years Active: 1910–1936

51. Sophie Koch

Sophie_Koch

Sophie Koch is a French mezzo-soprano renowned for her performances in both baroque and contemporary operas. She is particularly known for her portrayal of Richard Strauss and Mozart roles.

  • Birth Date: March 2, 1969
  • Major Albums:Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier, Mozart: Don Giovanni
  • Major Achievements: Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters, Echo Klassik Award winner
  • Years Active: 1995–present

52. Rita Streich

Rita_Streich

Rita Streich was a German coloratura soprano known for her agility and purity of tone, particularly in light soprano roles. She excelled in Mozart and Strauss operas and was a frequent performer at the Salzburg Festival.

  • Birth Date: December 18, 1920
  • Major Albums:Strauss: Ariadne auf Naxos, Mozart: Die Zauberflöte
  • Major Achievements: Kammersängerin of Austria, leading performances at the Vienna State Opera
  • Years Active: 1943–1974

53. Dorothy Kirsten

Dorothy_Kirsten

Dorothy Kirsten was an American soprano celebrated for her interpretations of Puccini’s operas. Her warm, lyric voice and dramatic stage presence made her a favorite at the Metropolitan Opera.

  • Birth Date: July 6, 1910
  • Major Albums:Puccini: La Bohème, Tosca
  • Major Achievements: National Medal of Arts, over 300 performances at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1940–1976

54. Lucia Aliberti

Lucia_Aliberti

Lucia Aliberti is an Italian coloratura soprano, acclaimed for her vocal agility and precise technique. She has specialized in bel canto roles and has performed in major opera houses around the world.

  • Birth Date: April 12, 1957
  • Major Albums:Bellini: Norma, Donizetti: Lucia di Lammermoor
  • Major Achievements: Golden Butterfly Award for Best Soprano, leading roles at La Scala and the Royal Opera House
  • Years Active: 1979–present

55. Hildegard Behrens

Hildegard_Behrens

Hildegard Behrens was a German dramatic soprano celebrated for her powerful voice and intense stage presence, particularly in Wagnerian roles. Her portrayal of Brünnhilde is considered one of the finest of her generation.

  • Birth Date: February 9, 1937
  • Major Albums:Wagner: The Ring Cycle, Beethoven: Fidelio
  • Major Achievements: Bavarian Kammersängerin, Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording
  • Years Active: 1971–2009

56. Rosa Ponselle

Rosa_Ponselle

Rosa Ponselle was an American soprano, widely regarded as one of the greatest voices of the 20th century. She was known for her powerful and expressive voice, especially in Verdi and Wagner operas.

  • Birth Date: January 22, 1897
  • Major Albums:Verdi: Aida, La Forza del Destino
  • Major Achievements: National Medal of Arts, prominent performer at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1918–1937

57. Eileen Farrell

Eileen_Farrell

Eileen Farrell was an American soprano and a versatile performer who excelled in both opera and jazz. She was known for her rich, dramatic voice, particularly in Verdi and Wagner roles.

  • Birth Date: February 13, 1920
  • Major Albums:Eileen Farrell Sings, Wagner: Arias and Duets
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Classical Performance, frequent performances with the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1941–1984

58. Malin Hartelius

Malin_Hartelius

Malin Hartelius is a Swedish soprano known for her performances in baroque and classical opera. Her light and lyrical voice has made her a favorite in Mozart and Handel roles.

  • Birth Date: September 1, 1966
  • Major Albums:Mozart: The Magic Flute, Handel: Giulio Cesare
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award, regular performer at the Salzburg Festival
  • Years Active: 1989–present

59. June Anderson

June_Anderson

June Anderson is an American soprano acclaimed for her coloratura roles, particularly in works by Bellini and Donizetti. She has a distinctive, clear voice and excels in bel canto operas.

  • Birth Date: December 30, 1952
  • Major Albums:Bellini: Norma, Lucia di Lammermoor
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Classical Vocal Solo, Chevalier of the Legion of Honour
  • Years Active: 1978–present

60. Marita Solberg

Marita_Solberg

Marita Solberg is a Norwegian soprano known for her bright and lyrical voice, particularly in Scandinavian and German operas. She is celebrated for her performances in roles by Grieg and Wagner.

  • Birth Date: 1976
  • Major Albums:Grieg: Peer Gynt, Wagner: Tannhäuser
  • Major Achievements: International Opera Award for Best Female Singer, regular performer at the Norwegian National Opera
  • Years Active: 2001–present

61. Irmgard Seefried

Irmgard_Seefried

Irmgard Seefried was a German lyric soprano celebrated for her interpretations of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Her expressive voice and innate musicality made her a favorite among critics and audiences alike.

  • Birth Date: October 9, 1919
  • Major Albums:Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro, Beethoven: Fidelio
  • Major Achievements: Kammersängerin of Vienna, performances at the Salzburg Festival
  • Years Active: 1940–1979

62. Gundula Janowitz

Gundula_Janowitz

Gundula Janowitz is an Austrian soprano known for her bright, clear voice, particularly in Mozart, Strauss, and Wagner. Her performances in lieder and concert music are also highly regarded.

  • Birth Date: August 2, 1937
  • Major Albums:Strauss: Four Last Songs, Beethoven: Missa Solemnis
  • Major Achievements: Austrian Kammersängerin, Echo Klassik Award
  • Years Active: 1959–1990

63. Camilla Nylund

Camilla_Nylund

Camilla Nylund is a Finnish soprano renowned for her powerful yet lyrical voice, excelling in dramatic roles by Wagner and Strauss. She has become a leading interpreter of strong female operatic characters.

  • Birth Date: June 11, 1968
  • Major Albums:Wagner: Lohengrin, Strauss: Arabella
  • Major Achievements: Bayerische Kammersängerin, recipient of the Finnish State Prize for Music
  • Years Active: 1995–present

64. Wilhelmine Schröder-Devrient

Wilhelmine_Schroder-Devrient

Wilhelmine Schröder-Devrient was a German operatic soprano known for her dramatic intensity and emotional performances, particularly in Wagner operas. She was a key figure in the early development of German Romantic opera.

  • Birth Date: December 6, 1804
  • Major Albums: Not applicable (19th-century recordings)
  • Major Achievements: Muse for Richard Wagner, praised for roles in Fidelio and Der Freischütz
  • Years Active: 1821–1847

65. Soile Isokoski

Soile_Isokoski

Soile Isokoski is a Finnish soprano known for her versatility in both opera and lieder, with a particular focus on works by Mozart, Strauss, and Wagner. Her clear and expressive voice has garnered international acclaim.

  • Birth Date: February 14, 1957
  • Major Albums:Strauss: Four Last Songs, Mozart: Requiem
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording, recipient of the Pro Finlandia Medal
  • Years Active: 1986–present

66. Dorothea Röschmann

Dorothea_Roschmann

Dorothea Röschmann is a German soprano renowned for her performances in Mozart and baroque operas. Her warm, lyrical voice and expressive stage presence have earned her critical acclaim worldwide.

  • Birth Date: June 17, 1967
  • Major Albums:Mozart: The Marriage of Figaro, Bach: St. John Passion
  • Major Achievements: Gramophone Award for Best Solo Vocal Album, Echo Klassik Award
  • Years Active: 1995–present

67. Solveig Kringelborn

Solveig_Kringelborn

Solveig Kringelborn is a Norwegian soprano known for her elegant voice and versatility, excelling in both operatic and concert performances. Her interpretations of Mozart and Strauss are particularly admired.

  • Birth Date: June 4, 1963
  • Major Albums:Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier, Mozart: Don Giovanni
  • Major Achievements: Recipient of the Norwegian Arts Council Prize, leading roles at the Royal Opera House
  • Years Active: 1989–2015

68. Irina Arkhipova

Irina_Arkhipova

Irina Arkhipova was a Russian mezzo-soprano celebrated for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence. She was a leading interpreter of Russian operas by composers like Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov.

  • Birth Date: December 2, 1925
  • Major Albums:Tchaikovsky: Eugene Onegin, Rimsky-Korsakov: The Tsar’s Bride
  • Major Achievements: People’s Artist of the USSR, numerous state honors in Russia
  • Years Active: 1953–1991

69. Graciela Araya

Graciela_Araya

Graciela Araya is a Chilean mezzo-soprano known for her performances in both operatic and concert works. She is celebrated for her rich voice and dramatic interpretations, particularly in Italian and French repertoire.

  • Birth Date: December 16, 1962
  • Major Albums:Verdi: Il Trovatore, Carmen
  • Major Achievements: Leading roles at the Vienna State Opera, multiple performances at the Salzburg Festival
  • Years Active: 1987–present

70. Geraldine Farrar

Geraldine_Farrar

Geraldine Farrar was an American soprano known for her powerful voice and film star-like charisma. She had a successful career at the Metropolitan Opera and was known for her acting as much as her singing.

  • Birth Date: February 28, 1882
  • Major Albums:Puccini: Madama Butterfly, Carmen
  • Major Achievements: Over 500 performances at the Metropolitan Opera, a successful silent film actress
  • Years Active: 1901–1922

71. Claudia Patacca

Claudia_Patacca

Claudia Patacca is a Dutch soprano known for her clear, lyric voice. She has gained fame for her performances in both opera and oratorio, particularly excelling in the baroque repertoire.

  • Birth Date: September 18, 1965
  • Major Albums:Bach: St. Matthew Passion, Handel: Messiah
  • Major Achievements: Leading performances in European opera houses, known for her lieder interpretations
  • Years Active: 1990–present

72. Cheryl Studer

Cheryl_Studer

Cheryl Studer is an American soprano known for her extraordinary range and ability to perform both lyric and dramatic roles. She is renowned for her interpretations of Wagner and Strauss.

  • Birth Date: October 24, 1955
  • Major Albums:Wagner: Die Walküre, Strauss: Elektra
  • Major Achievements: Two Grammy Awards, Bayerische Kammersängerin
  • Years Active: 1978–present

73. Marlis Petersen

Marlis_Petersen

Marlis Petersen is a German coloratura soprano known for her remarkable vocal agility and technical skill. She is particularly renowned for her performances in modern operas as well as baroque works.

  • Birth Date: February 3, 1968
  • Major Albums:Mozart: Die Entführung aus dem Serail, The Strauss Project
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award, frequent performer at major international opera houses
  • Years Active: 1994–present

74. Sarah Coburn

Sarah_Coburn

Sarah Coburn is an American coloratura soprano known for her bright, agile voice and ability to perform demanding operatic roles. She has gained wide recognition for her performances in Italian bel canto operas.

  • Birth Date: August 4, 1977
  • Major Albums:Lucia di Lammermoor, La Sonnambula
  • Major Achievements: Richard Tucker Award finalist, frequent performer at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 2000–present

75. Tatyana Troyanos

Tatyana_Troyanos

Tatyana Troyanos was an American mezzo-soprano known for her dramatic voice and emotional intensity, particularly in roles by Mozart and Strauss. She also excelled in French and Italian operatic repertoire.

  • Birth Date: September 12, 1938
  • Major Albums:Mozart: Così fan tutte, Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier
  • Major Achievements: Grammy Award winner, frequent performer at the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 1963–1993

76. Ana María Martínez

Ana_Maria_Martinez

Ana María Martínez is a Puerto Rican soprano known for her beautiful, warm voice and strong stage presence. She has performed in leading roles in major opera houses across the world, specializing in both Spanish and Italian opera.

  • Birth Date: April 10, 1971
  • Major Albums:La Bohème, Carmen
  • Major Achievements: Latin Grammy Award winner, Richard Tucker Award recipient
  • Years Active: 1995–present

77. Jarmila Novotná

Jarmila_Novotna

Jarmila Novotná was a Czech soprano renowned for her elegance and acting ability. She was a popular singer in both opera and film, known for her roles in Mozart and Puccini operas.

  • Birth Date: September 23, 1907
  • Major Albums:La Bohème, Le Nozze di Figaro
  • Major Achievements: Frequent performer at the Metropolitan Opera, Commander of the Order of St. Sava
  • Years Active: 1925–1956

78. Kristine Opolais

Kristine_Opolais

Kristine Opolais is a Latvian soprano known for her rich, emotive voice and dramatic interpretations. She is widely praised for her performances in Puccini and Verdi operas.

  • Birth Date: November 12, 1979
  • Major Albums:Madama Butterfly, Tosca
  • Major Achievements: Echo Klassik Award for Best Female Singer, leading roles at the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera
  • Years Active: 2003–present

79. Teresa Stich-Randall

Teresa_Stich-Randall

Teresa Stich-Randall was an American soprano known for her clear, light voice and technical precision, especially in Mozart and baroque repertoire. She gained fame in Europe, particularly in France and Austria.

  • Birth Date: December 24, 1927
  • Major Albums:Mozart: Don Giovanni, Beethoven: Fidelio
  • Major Achievements: Chevalier of the Legion of Honour, Kammersängerin of Vienna
  • Years Active: 1947–1980

Conclusion

From legendary opera divas to modern pop sensations, these iconic sopranos have left an extraordinary mark on the music industry.

Their voices have the power to move us, inspire us, and transport us to new emotional heights.

As you’ve seen, the soprano voice is versatile, spanning various genres and styles.

Each singer on this list brings something unique to the table, showcasing the incredible range and possibilities of the soprano voice.

We hope this guide has introduced you to new artists and reignited your appreciation for familiar favorites.

What’s your favorite soprano voice? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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