Was Plácido Domingo a Great Tenor?

Plácido Domingo is widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors of the 20th and 21st centuries. His career spans several decades, during which he performed in numerous operas and concerts around the world. Known for his powerful voice, exceptional musicality, and dramatic interpretation, Domingo has earned acclaim in both traditional operatic roles and in crossover projects.

Legends of the Voice: A Hierarchy of Tenors

Is Plácido Domingo's vocal material greater than that of other legendary tenors such as Franco Corelli, Mario Del Monaco, Richard Tucker, and Luciano Pavarotti? Probably not. However, his beautiful voice and ironclad technique and musicality have earned him a place among the greatest of the past seventy years. Domingo's constitution allowed him to endure a career that spanned decades, making him a legendary figure in opera.

Strengths and Limitations of Plácido Domingo's Voice

While his peers, including Pavarotti, Carreras, and Aragall, had more beautiful voices, Domingo's consistency, dramatic ability, and strength to deliver night after night year after year were unparalleled. His technique and musicality were indeed ironclad. Although his voice could be transposed from an early age, it was ample and big but not as honky as MDM or Corelli. He lacked the ring on top that many of his contemporaries had.

It is worth mentioning that the top of his voice was never its glory. Domingo's second career as a baritone was also questionable. Although he managed to carry it off, this decision kept several natural baritones from appearing in major productions. This act of extreme selfishness and ego prevented the next generation of talented baritones from gaining exposure in top roles.

The Polymath of Opera

Beyond his tenor career, Plácido Domingo took on the roles of conductor and opera administrator, further contributing to the classical music world. His versatility and dedication to the art form were reflections of his numerous contributions to the field. Domingo fostered the careers of many young singers, ran opera companies, and started vocal competitions. Indeed, he managed to achieve success in five different areas of opera.

Controversies and Affirmations

While Plácido Domingo's career was marked by great achievements, it was also marred by controversies. Allegations of misconduct have affected his reputation in recent years. However, his legacy as a great tenor stands regardless of these controversies. His impact on the world of classical music and opera remains significant, and his contributions continue to inspire future generations of singers and administrators.