Along with Luciano Pavarotti and José Carreras, Placido Domingo is known to millions around the world simply as one of “The Three Tenors”. The phenomenal success of their combined voices in televised concerts has brought classical singing to members of the public who might otherwise never even have heard of it. A format originally put together to raise money for charity, the concerts have become a formula to fill vast auditoria on tour and make millions in spin-off sales.
Born in Madrid, in 1941, Domingo studied conducting and piano before beginning his vocal training. Having made his début in 1957, he sang his first major tenor rôle as Alfredo in Verdi’s La Traviata in 1961. He was a member of the Israel National Opera between 1962 and 1965, and made his first appearance in the US with the New York City Opera in 1966. Many engagements at the Metropolitan Opera followed. In 1971 he made his first appearance at Covent Garden, since when he has become famous for his interpretations of Verdi and Puccini in particular.
He continues to sing all over the world and is now regarded as perhaps the leading lyric tenor of our times. His television, film and recording careers have brought him many fans beyond the world of opera houses and concert halls. He has enjoyed recording popular standards and songs from Broadway shows, as well as all the established classic Italian arias. He is a master of sentiment and of dramatic vocal colouring, whatever brand of repertoire he takes up.
His much-publicised interest in football and high profile in the press have also helped to give him his perceived common touch. This quality, combined with his vocal technique, musicianship and dramatic stage presence has raised him to the level of superstar. His early love of conducting has remained a part of his professional life, and since 1994 he has been artistic director of the Washington Opera.
