Luciano Pavarotti

Luciano Pavarotti was an Italian tenor from Modena who studied with Arrigo Pola and Ettore Campogalliani. He made his operatic debut in 1961 as Rodolfo in Puccini's 'La Bohème,' which set the stage for what followed. His voice had a particular clarity that carried through large halls, and he became known for bringing opera to wider audiences through television broadcasts and stadium concerts.

Some of his most recognizable recordings include 'Vesti La Giubba' from Pagliacci and 'Brindisi' from La Traviata. His version of the Neapolitan song 'O Sole Mio' became especially popular in the 1980s. Alongside Plácido Domingo and José Carreras, he performed as one of the Three Tenors in concerts that reached millions of people who might not have otherwise attended an opera house.

Pavarotti also recorded songs like 'Mamma' and 'Non Ti Scordar Di Me,' which showed his interest in popular Italian music beyond the standard repertoire. He established the Pavarotti Foundation to support young singers. He died in 2007.