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Luciano Pavarotti (12 October 1935 - 6 September 2007), an Italian tenor, was one of the most famous singers, not only in the world of opera, but across all genres.
He was born in Modena to the family of a baker. After abandoning the dream to become a professional football goalkeeper, Pavarotti spent seven years in vocal training and began his career as a tenor in 1961 in Italy. He sang in houses in The Netherlands, Vienna, London, Ankara, Budapest and Barcelona. The young tenor earned valuable experience and significant recognition while touring on the invitation of soprano Joan Sutherland and during his 1965 US debut in Miami on her recommendation. His position was solidified in the years between 1966 and 1972, during which Pavarotti first appeared at Milan’s La Scala, other major European houses and, in 1968, NYC’s Metropolitan Opera to great acclaim.
By the mid-1970’s, the tenor became known worldwide, famed for the brilliance and beauty of his tone, especially into the upper register. His “high C” became one of his trademarks. The late 1970s and 1980s saw Pavarotti making significant appearances in the world’s opera houses and establishing himself as one of the great singers of the era.
Popular stardom came at the 1990 World Cup in Italy with the performances of “Nessun dorma” (from Turandot) and as one of The Three Tenors in their famed first concert held on the eve of the final match of the tournament (repeated at later Cups). |
