Famous British Opera Singers

Dmitri Hvorostovsky was a renowned Russian operatic baritone celebrated for his powerful and emotive performances on global stages. With a rich, velvety voice and exceptional vocal range, he captivated audiences with his interpretations of iconic roles in operas by composers such as Tchaikovsky, Verdi, and Mozart. Hvorostovsky's career spanned over three decades, during which he collaborated with leading opera houses and orchestras worldwide, earning critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards for his exceptional artistry and profound musicality.

Sarah Brightman is an accomplished English classical crossover soprano singer, actress, and dancer. She began her career in the entertainment industry as a member of the dance troupe Hot Gossip before making her mark in musical theatre, starring in iconic productions like Cats and The Phantom of the Opera. Brightman transitioned to a successful music career as a classical crossover artist, collaborating with renowned musicians like Andrea Bocelli. With global sales of over 25 million albums, she is recognized as one of the best-selling sopranos worldwide. Additionally, Brightman has been recognized for her philanthropic efforts and cultural contributions, earning prestigious appointments like UNESCO Artist for Peace.

Lesley Garrett is an accomplished English soprano singer, musician, broadcaster, and media personality known for her versatility in opera and crossover music. With a successful career spanning decades, she has captivated audiences with her powerful vocal performances and engaging stage presence. Garrett has garnered critical acclaim for her contributions to the music industry, showcasing her talent through various mediums such as live performances, recordings, and television appearances. Her passion for music and dedication to her craft have solidified her reputation as a respected and beloved figure in the world of classical and contemporary music.

Sir Geraint Llewellyn Evans CBE was a prominent Welsh bass-baritone known for his exceptional performances in various operatic roles. He garnered praise for his portrayals of characters like Figaro in Le nozze di Figaro, Papageno in Die Zauberflöte, and the title role in Wozzeck. Particularly acclaimed for his interpretation of Verdi's Falstaff, Evans sang over 70 diverse roles during his illustrious career spanning from his debut at Covent Garden in 1948 to his final performance there in 1984.

Darius Campbell Danesh was a versatile Scottish artist known for his talents as a singer-songwriter, actor, and film producer. He gained recognition through his appearances on popular talent shows like Popstars and Pop Idol. His music career included the release of two successful studio albums and several hit singles. Campbell also showcased his acting skills in various theatrical productions, earning critical acclaim for his performances in musicals like Chicago, Guys and Dolls, and Gone with the Wind. Additionally, he ventured into opera, winning competitions and making his operatic debut to great acclaim.

Peter Pears was an English tenor known for his close association with composer Benjamin Britten. Their partnership led to the creation of numerous concert and operatic works tailored to Pears's voice. They were celebrated for their performances of lieder by Schubert and Schumann. Pears also collaborated with other musicians, expanding his repertoire across centuries. Together, they founded the Aldeburgh Festival and the Britten-Pears School. Pears continued his involvement after Britten's death, showcasing his distinctive voice and versatility in various musical styles.

Kathleen Ferrier was a highly acclaimed English contralto singer known for her diverse repertoire spanning folk songs, popular ballads, and classical works by renowned composers. Starting her singing career in 1937 after winning a prestigious competition, she quickly rose to fame with the support of influential figures in the music industry. Ferrier's talent shone on stage, in concerts, and through recordings, captivating audiences in the UK and internationally. Despite battling cancer, she continued to perform and inspire others until her untimely death in 1953, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.

Wynne Evans is a versatile Welsh singer, presenter, and actor who gained fame for his portrayal of Gio Compario in the Go.compare insurance adverts in the UK. He showcased his vocal talents in the 25th-anniversary production of The Phantom of the Opera and performed "Glory Glory Tottenham Hotspur" at significant events for the football club. With a successful career in both singing and acting, Evans continues to captivate audiences with his performances on television and stage.

Anthony Rolfe Johnson was an esteemed English operatic tenor known for his versatile and expressive performances. Throughout his career, he collaborated with prestigious opera houses and conductors worldwide, showcasing his exceptional vocal talent and interpretation skills. He was highly regarded for his interpretations of roles in operas by composers such as Mozart, Britten, and Handel. Johnson's captivating stage presence and emotive singing style earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following among opera enthusiasts, solidifying his reputation as one of the finest tenors of his generation.

Rhydian Roberts is a Welsh former baritone singer, television presenter, and musical theatre actor. He gained popularity through his participation in series 4 of The X Factor in 2007. While his fame waned in subsequent years, he continued his career in the entertainment industry. Roberts retired from performing in February 2023, releasing a farewell album. Currently, he works as an artist manager at Neil O'Brien Entertainment, utilizing his experience and expertise to support other artists in their careers.

Lucia Elizabeth Vestris was a versatile British actress and contralto opera singer known for her performances in works by renowned composers such as Mozart and Rossini. Transitioning to theatre production and management, she leased the Olympic Theatre in London where she produced a series of successful burlesques and extravaganzas, particularly showcasing the works of James Planché. Vestris' entrepreneurial spirit and knack for producing popular shows solidified her reputation as a successful and influential figure in the theatrical world of her time.

Aled Jones is a versatile Welsh singer, radio and television presenter, and actor. He rose to prominence as a teenage chorister with his hit recording "Walking in the Air" in 1985. Since then, he has had a successful career in television, working with the BBC and ITV, presenting shows such as Daybreak, Songs of Praise, Cash in the Attic, and Escape to the Country. Jones is known for his engaging presence and has continued to entertain audiences with his talents across various media platforms.

Catherine 'Kitty' Clive was a pioneering figure in British playhouse entertainment, known for her exceptional talents as a songster and star comedienne. She revolutionized English musical theatre by leading and creating new forms of performance. Clive excelled in both high-style musical roles, such as performing Handel's music in notable works, and in low-style ballad opera roles. She championed women's rights throughout her career and cleverly navigated an image crisis by transitioning to self-parody on stage, ultimately securing her place as a celebrated comedienne until her retirement in 1769.

Catherine Bott is a British singer and broadcaster who began her career as a member of Swingle II before pursuing a solo career specializing in medieval, renaissance, and baroque music. She has an extensive recording history, performing in various classical works and new compositions. Bott has presented radio shows on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM, covering early music and the history of classical music. She is also involved in presenting concerts for Wigmore Hall and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Bott holds fellowships at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance.

Anastasia Robinson was an English soprano and contralto of the Baroque era known for her association with composer George Frideric Handel. She performed in several of Handel's operas, creating roles in premieres such as Zenobia in Radamisto and Cornelia in Giulio Cesare. Robinson's career faced a scandal in 1724 involving the castrato Senesino and the Earl of Peterborough, which was later immortalized in satirical writings by Jonathan Swift. Her professional achievements and contributions to the operatic world remain notable in Baroque music history.

Adelaide Kemble was an accomplished opera singer renowned for her powerful voice and expressive performances. She gained recognition for her exceptional vocal range and technical skill, captivating audiences with her passionate interpretations of various operatic roles. Kemble's career flourished as she performed in prestigious venues across Europe, earning critical acclaim for her dynamic stage presence and dramatic artistry. Her legacy as a talented soprano continues to inspire aspiring musicians and opera enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying her place as a significant figure in the history of classical music.

Peter Glossop was an accomplished English baritone known for his powerful and emotive performances of Verdi's tragic baritone roles. Rising from humble beginnings in Yorkshire, he established himself as a leading performer in London and prominent opera houses across Europe and America. Glossop's talent and dedication to his craft earned him the distinction of being the only Englishman to have sung Verdi's great tragic baritone roles at the prestigious La Scala in Milan, solidifying his reputation as a highly respected and sought-after opera singer.

John Shirley-Quirk CBE was an accomplished English bass-baritone known for his extensive contributions to the world of opera and vocal music. He was a prominent member of the English Opera Group for over a decade, premiering numerous works by Benjamin Britten and recording under the composer's direction. Shirley-Quirk's repertoire extended beyond Britten to include works by composers such as Handel, Tchaikovsky, and Henze. His powerful and versatile voice left a lasting impact on the classical music scene, earning him a reputation as a highly respected performer.

Dame Carolyn Emma Kirkby is a highly acclaimed English soprano renowned for her expertise in early music. With a career spanning decades, she has made significant contributions to the field through her performances and recordings. Kirkby's exceptional talent has been showcased on over 100 recordings, solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in the realm of early music. Her dedication to the craft and her distinctive soprano voice have earned her widespread recognition and admiration among audiences and peers alike.