The Best Songs About Opera Song of All Time

Opera has been a source of musical and theatrical entertainment for centuries, with its roots dating back to the Renaissance era. It is a form of art that incorporates music, drama, and sometimes dance to tell a story. Many famous operas have produced some of the most beautiful and memorable songs that continue to enchant audiences to this day. In this article, we will explore the best opera songs of all time.

Opera music often features powerful vocals, accompanied by an orchestra that can stir emotions and evoke deep feelings in listeners. From the soaring melodies of Mozart to the dramatic arias of Puccini and Verdi, opera has a vast repertoire that spans several centuries and cultures. These songs have been performed by some of the world’s most talented singers and have become synonymous with the genre.

Whether you’re a seasoned opera fan or new to the world of opera, this article will take you on a journey through some of the most iconic and beautiful opera songs of all time. From the classics of the 18th century to modern compositions, we’ll showcase the variety and richness of this art form. Get ready to be transported to a world of soaring melodies, heart-wrenching emotion, and unforgettable performances.

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1. Habanera – Bizet (Carmen)

“Habanera” from Georges Bizet’s opera “Carmen.” This aria is one of the most well-known pieces in opera and is sung by the title character, Carmen, as she seduces Don Jose with her flirtatious and confident demeanor. The melody is characterized by its repetitive and catchy rhythm, as well as its sultry and passionate tones. The lyrics express Carmen’s belief in the power of love and her refusal to be tied down to any one man, making it a feminist statement for its time. This song is often performed outside of the opera in various adaptations and has been used in films, TV shows, and even pop songs. The Habanera is a true classic that continues to captivate audiences with its beauty and intensity.

2. The Queen of the Night’s Aria – Mozart (The Magic Flute)

“The Queen of the Night’s Aria” from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera “The Magic Flute.” This aria is sung by the character of the Queen of the Night, who is seeking revenge against the character of Sarastro. The piece is known for its challenging vocal range and dramatic coloratura passages, which demonstrate the Queen’s range and power. The aria is filled with passion and intensity, with lyrics that convey the Queen’s anger and determination. The piece has been featured in popular culture and has been covered by various artists. It is a true masterpiece of the opera world and a showcase of Mozart’s musical genius.

3. O Mio Babbino Caro – Puccini

“O Mio Babbino Caro” by Giacomo Puccini, from his opera “Gianni Schicchi.” The aria is sung by the character of Lauretta, who is pleading with her father to allow her to marry the man she loves. The piece is known for its beautiful melody and emotional lyrics, which express Lauretta’s desperation to be with her beloved. The aria has become a staple of classical vocal repertoire and is frequently performed in concerts and recitals. Its popularity has also led to it being featured in various films and television shows. “O Mio Babbino Caro” is a timeless classic that showcases Puccini’s skill in creating beautiful, heartfelt music.

4. Pour mon âme – Gaetano Donizetti

“Pour mon âme” by Gaetano Donizetti, from his opera “La Fille du Régiment.” The aria is sung by the character of Tonio, a young man who has joined the army in order to be close to Marie, the woman he loves. In the aria, Tonio expresses his love for Marie and his joy at being accepted into the regiment. The piece is known for its challenging vocal lines, including a series of nine high Cs that require exceptional vocal control and skill. Despite its difficulty, “Pour mon âme” has become a beloved staple of the operatic repertoire, and its catchy melody and lively rhythm make it a crowd-pleaser.

5. Deh vieni, non tardar – Mozart (Marriage of Figaro)

“Deh vieni, non tardar” is a beautiful and romantic aria from Mozart’s opera “The Marriage of Figaro.” Sung by the character Susanna in the fourth act, the song expresses her longing for her lover, Figaro. The aria is filled with tender and passionate emotions as Susanna asks Figaro to come to her quickly and not delay. The gentle melody is accompanied by a delicate orchestration of strings and winds, which creates a sense of intimacy and warmth. The lyrics are filled with imagery and metaphors, painting a picture of a garden in bloom and a heart overflowing with love. Overall, “Deh vieni, non tardar” is a timeless masterpiece of classical music that captures the essence of love and longing in a beautiful and unforgettable way.

6. Che gelida manina – Puccini (La Bohème)

“Che gelida manina” is a captivating aria from Giacomo Puccini’s opera “La Bohème.” Sung by the character Rodolfo in the first act, the song is a heartfelt expression of his feelings for the beautiful and mysterious Mimi. The music is characterized by its soaring melodies and lush orchestration, with the orchestra painting a vivid picture of the cold winter night in which the scene takes place. The lyrics are filled with poetry and emotion, describing Mimi’s delicate beauty and the powerful effect she has on Rodolfo’s heart. The aria is a showcase for the tenor voice, demanding both technical skill and emotional depth from the singer. Overall, “Che gelida manina” is a quintessential example of the passionate and romantic style of Italian opera, capturing the beauty and intensity of young love.

7. Tatiana’s Letter Scene – Tchaikovsky (Eugene Onegin)

“Tatiana’s Letter Scene” is a powerful and emotionally charged soprano aria from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s opera “Eugene Onegin.” The scene takes place in the second act and depicts the character Tatiana pouring out her heart in a letter to the object of her affections, Onegin. The music is filled with sweeping melodies and dramatic shifts in mood and tempo, mirroring the intensity of Tatiana’s emotions. The lyrics are deeply introspective and philosophical, exploring themes of love, identity, and the struggle between reason and passion. The aria demands both technical virtuosity and emotional depth from the singer, making it one of the most challenging and rewarding pieces in the operatic repertoire. Overall, “Tatiana’s Letter Scene” is a masterpiece of musical drama, capturing the complexity and depth of human emotions in a stunning and unforgettable way.

8. Dido’s Lament – Henry Purcell (Dido and Aeneas)

“Dido’s Lament” is a heart-wrenching aria from Henry Purcell’s opera “Dido and Aeneas.” Sung by the character Dido in the final act, the song is a poignant expression of her despair and longing for her lost love, Aeneas. The music is characterized by its hauntingly beautiful melody and spare, melancholic instrumentation, emphasizing the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The lyrics themselves are deeply introspective and philosophical, exploring themes of loss, grief, and the transience of human existence. The aria demands both technical skill and emotional depth from the singer, making it one of the most challenging and rewarding pieces in the baroque repertoire. Overall, “Dido’s Lament” is a masterpiece of musical expression, capturing the full range of human emotions in a powerful and moving way.

9. O Sole Mio – Eduardo di Capua

“O Sole Mio” is a classic Neapolitan song written in 1898 by Eduardo di Capua. The song’s title translates to “My Sunshine,” and it has become one of the most popular and recognizable Italian songs of all time. The melody is known for its simple, catchy tune, and the lyrics are a love song, expressing the singer’s adoration for the object of their affection. The song has been covered by countless artists in many different languages, and its popularity has led to it being used in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. Overall, “O Sole Mio” is a joyful celebration of love and life, and its universal appeal has made it a beloved classic around the world.

10. Largo al Factotum – Rossini (The Barber of Seville)

“Largo al Factotum” is a famous aria from Gioachino Rossini’s comic opera, “The Barber of Seville.” The song is performed by Figaro, the barber, who boasts about his skills as the town’s jack-of-all-trades. The lively and energetic music is matched by the character’s quick wit and clever wordplay, making the aria an audience favorite. The song has been featured in numerous movies, television shows, and commercials, and it is often performed by baritones looking to showcase their vocal abilities. Overall, “Largo al Factotum” is a humorous and charming piece of music that captures the essence of the beloved character of Figaro.

11. Casta Diva – Bellini (Norma)

“Casta Diva” is an aria from Vincenzo Bellini’s opera “Norma,” considered by many to be one of the greatest bel canto operas of all time. The song is sung by Norma, a Druid high priestess who prays to the moon goddess, asking for peace and the safety of her people. “Casta Diva” is known for its sublime beauty, its long and flowing melodic lines, and its soaring high notes, all of which make it a favorite of opera lovers and singers alike. The aria has been performed by some of the most famous sopranos in history and remains one of the most beloved and iconic arias in the operatic repertoire.

12. Nessun Dorma – Giacomo Puccini (Turandot)

“Nessun Dorma” is an aria from Giacomo Puccini’s final opera, “Turandot.” Sung by the prince Calaf, the aria is a passionate declaration of his love for Princess Turandot, who has vowed to marry only the man who can solve her three riddles. The song is known for its soaring, triumphant melody and its famous “Vincerò” refrain, which means “I will win.” “Nessun Dorma” has become one of the most popular and recognizable opera arias of all time, and has been performed by countless singers and orchestras around the world. Its popularity was also helped by Luciano Pavarotti’s famous rendition during the 1990 World Cup, making it an iconic sports anthem as well.

13. La donne è mobile – Giuseppe Verdi (Rigoletto)

“La donna è mobile” is an aria from Giuseppe Verdi’s opera, “Rigoletto.” Sung by the Duke of Mantua, the aria is a playful and seductive ode to women, declaring that they are fickle and changeable creatures who can never be understood or tamed. The Duke sings the aria as he boasts about his latest conquest, but his true character is revealed as the opera progresses, and his actions have tragic consequences for himself and those around him. “La donna è mobile” is one of Verdi’s most popular and recognizable arias, and its catchy melody and charming lyrics have made it a favorite of opera singers and audiences alike.

14. Quando m’en vo – Puccini (La Bohème)

“Quando m’en vo” is an aria from Act 2 of Giacomo Puccini’s opera “La Bohème”. It is sung by the character Musetta, a coquettish and flirtatious young woman, as she enters a café with her wealthy older lover, Alcindoro. The aria is a showcase for Musetta’s vivacious personality and her ability to captivate those around her. She sings about the pleasure she takes in being the center of attention and describes the admiring looks she receives from the men in the café. The aria is known for its upbeat and catchy melody, and has become one of Puccini’s most popular and beloved compositions.

15. Voi che sapete – Mozart (Marriage of Figaro)

“Voi che sapete” is an aria from Act 2 of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s opera “The Marriage of Figaro”. The aria is sung by the pageboy, Cherubino, who is in love with every woman he meets. In the aria, he laments his inability to understand the complexities of love and asks for advice from the women around him. The melody of the aria is playful and light-hearted, reflecting Cherubino’s youthful naivety and charm. It has become one of Mozart’s most recognizable and beloved compositions, and is often performed as a standalone piece outside of the context of the opera.

16. Libiamo ne’ lieti calici – Verdi (La Traviata)

“Libiamo ne’ lieti calici” is a famous duet from the first act of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera “La Traviata”. The song is a toast to love and pleasure, and is sung by the characters Violetta and Alfredo. The melody is upbeat and cheerful, reflecting the joyful atmosphere of the party where the duet takes place. The lyrics are in Italian and encourage the drinkers to enjoy life and love, for tomorrow they may die. The duet has become one of Verdi’s most famous and beloved compositions, and is often performed as a standalone piece at classical music events and in pop culture, including in the film “Pretty Woman”.

17. Flower Duet – Delibes (Lakme)

The Flower Duet is a famous duet from Léo Delibes’ opera Lakmé, written in 1883. The piece is known for its ethereal and dreamy qualities and features two female characters, Lakmé and her servant, Mallika, singing a beautiful duet about the beauty of nature. The duet’s melody is instantly recognizable and has been used in various films, television shows, and advertisements. The piece is performed by a soprano and a mezzo-soprano, and the voices blend together seamlessly to create a beautiful and serene atmosphere. The Flower Duet is a timeless classic that remains a popular choice for opera fans and casual listeners alike.

18. Vissi d’arte – Giacomo Puccini (Tosca)

“Vissi d’arte” is a heartbreaking aria from Puccini’s opera “Tosca”. Sung by the title character, the famous diva Floria Tosca, the aria is a lament for her lost happiness and the unfairness of fate. In the aria, Tosca reflects on the sacrifices she has made for her art and her love, only to find herself betrayed and alone. The soaring melody and emotional intensity of the piece make it a favorite among opera lovers, and it is often cited as one of Puccini’s greatest creations.

19. Non mi dir – Mozart (Don Giovanni)

“Non mi dir” is an aria from the 1787 opera “Don Giovanni” by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Sung by the character Donna Anna, it is a beautiful and passionate piece that showcases the singer’s range and emotional depth. The aria begins with a slow and mournful introduction, which builds to a lively and intricate melody. The lyrics express Donna Anna’s conflicting feelings towards Don Giovanni, whom she both loves and hates. The piece is a testament to Mozart’s skill at conveying complex emotions through music, and has become a beloved classic in the world of opera.

20. Un bel di vedremo – Puccini (Madame Butterfly)

“Un bel di vedremo” is an aria from Puccini’s opera “Madame Butterfly”. Sung by the lead character, Cio-Cio-San, also known as Butterfly, the aria expresses her hope and longing for her lover Pinkerton to return to her as he promised, despite his absence for three years. The melody is gentle and melancholic, with soaring high notes, portraying the character’s yearning and her unwavering faith in her lover’s return. The lyrics are poignant and expressive, evoking the emotions of hope, love, and longing. The aria is a powerful depiction of the human heart’s capacity to hope, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

21. Ombra Mai Fu – Georg Friedrich Handel (Xerxes)

“Ombra Mai Fu” is a beautiful aria from the opera “Xerxes” by the German-British composer, George Frideric Handel. Sung by Xerxes, the Persian king, the song is an ode to the beauty of a plane tree’s shade. The serene melody and soft orchestration give the song a peaceful, contemplative feel, making it a popular choice for funerals and other solemn occasions. The lyrics, in Italian, praise the tree for providing shade and comfort, and express the desire to be buried beneath its branches. Handel’s masterful composition and Xerxes’ emotive delivery make “Ombra Mai Fu” a timeless classic in the world of opera.

22. Je veux vivre – Gounod (Romeo and Juliet)

“Je veux vivre” is an aria from the opera “Romeo and Juliet” by Charles Gounod. The song is sung by the character Juliet and expresses her desire to live life to the fullest and experience all its joys, especially her love for Romeo. The song has a lively and upbeat melody that reflects Juliet’s youthful spirit and optimism. It is often performed by sopranos, who must display both technical prowess and emotional depth in conveying Juliet’s passion and energy. “Je veux vivre” is a classic example of the French operatic tradition, and remains popular among audiences and performers alike.

23. L’Orfeo – Monteverdi (Savall)

“L’Orfeo” is a baroque opera by Claudio Monteverdi, and this rendition is performed by Jordi Savall and his ensemble Hesperion XXI. The opera tells the story of Orpheus, who descends into the underworld to rescue his beloved Eurydice. The aria featured in this performance, “Vi ricorda o boschi ombrosi,” is sung by Orfeo as he mourns the loss of Eurydice. The hauntingly beautiful melody is accompanied by a variety of period instruments, including the viola da gamba and harp, and Savall’s ensemble delivers a powerful and emotional performance that captures the essence of this timeless piece.

24. Ride of the Valkyries – Wagner (Der Ring Des Nibelungen)

“Ride of the Valkyries” is a powerful and dramatic orchestral piece composed by Richard Wagner as part of his four-opera cycle, “Der Ring Des Nibelungen.” The piece features soaring brass melodies, thunderous percussion, and sweeping string passages that evoke a sense of triumph and grandeur. The music is often associated with scenes of battle and heroism, as it was famously used in the film Apocalypse Now during a helicopter assault sequence. The dynamic shifts in tempo and instrumentation make “Ride of the Valkyries” a thrilling and intense listening experience that has stood the test of time.

25. The Mad Scene – Salvadore Cammarano (Lucia Di Lammermoor)

“The Mad Scene” is a soprano aria from the tragic opera “Lucia Di Lammermoor” by Italian composer Gaetano Donizetti, with a libretto by Salvadore Cammarano. The scene depicts Lucia, who has been forced to marry a man she does not love, descending into madness after killing her new husband in a fit of rage. The hauntingly beautiful aria, with its delicate and melancholic melody, showcases the singer’s vocal range and emotional depth as Lucia’s mental state deteriorates before the audience’s eyes. This powerful performance has become one of the most iconic moments in the history of opera.

26. O Fortuna – Carl Orff (Carmina Burana)

“O Fortuna” is a powerful and dramatic choral piece from Carl Orff’s cantata “Carmina Burana.” The song opens with a booming chant that sets the intense mood of the composition, and the choir’s voices rise and fall dramatically throughout the piece, creating a sense of urgency and impending doom. The lyrics, sung in Latin, express the idea of fate and the unpredictability of life, with a sense of both desperation and resignation. The soaring melody and thundering percussion make “O Fortuna” an iconic piece of classical music that has been used in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements.

27. Andrea Bocelli – Canto Della Terra

“Canto Della Terra” is a powerful Italian ballad performed by the legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli. The song begins with a gentle piano intro, building to a soaring chorus that showcases Bocelli’s rich and emotive vocals. The lyrics express a deep love and connection to the earth, and the longing to be reunited with a loved one. The orchestration features a blend of classical and pop elements, with strings and percussion driving the melody forward. Bocelli’s performance is full of passion and vulnerability, making “Canto Della Terra” a poignant and memorable addition to his repertoire.