Performances of the run were broadcast worldwide. It all started at the Teatro Massimo di Palermo where he headlined a new production of “Turandot,” role for which he has garnered great acclaim. It was quite a year for American Brian Jagde as he solidified his status as one of the most acclaimed spinto tenors of his generations, debuting five roles in one year. “His voice resounded with sonority and ease” – OperaWire Leo Nucci also announced his retirement from the stage after triumphing in his final “Rigoletto” and “La Traviata” at the Teatro alla Scala and Arena di Verona.įinally, Jessica Pratt made history as “Lucia di Lammermoor,” singing her 100th performance of the role in its original key.

Meanwhile, Luca Pisaroni won the Opera News Awards, made his role debut in the title role of “Don Giovanni,” his role debut as Escamillo in “Carmen,” and created the role of Da Ponte in “The Phoenix.” Her Liù in “Turandot” also garnered rave reviews and was recorded from the Gran Teatre del Liceu. Meanwhile, Ermonela Jaho made for her Carnegie Hall debut, released Puccini’s “Le Willis,” and gave an acclaimed turn at the Royal Opera House in “La Traviata,” which went to cinemas and DVD. Tomasz Konieczny made his international breakout at the Metropolitan Opera for his work in the Ring Cycle and revived a production of Danton’s Todd at the Wiener Staatsoper.

Like last year, OperaWire has put together a list of the Opera stars who we believe were among the top in 2019.īut before we get to the main list there are a couple of singers that are worth mentioning who did not make this year’s top 11.Īilyn Perez opened the Dutch National Opera’s 2019-20 season, won the Opera News Awards, made her role debut as Donna Anna in “Don Giovanni” at the Houston Grand Opera, and became ambassador for Opera America and Opera for Peace. There were others who made history and others who created new operas. It was a great year for numerous singers who broke-out and for established performers who took their careers in new directions or made important debuts. As we end the year its time to look back at the past 365-ish days and the big moments that defined 2019.

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