Most people who know a bit about opera are familiar with some of the great male voices. Names like Enrico Caruso, Luciano Pavarotti, Giuseppe Di Stefano, and Robert Merrill quickly come to mind. These are enduring figures whose contributions to opera were many.



But what about the ladies? Anyone but a fervent opera lover can nary come up with a name or two from the past. With that in mind, let's fast forward to today and introduce you to some of the most talented - and highly attractive - female opera stars.

While certainly not all inclusive, this list is in one man's view an enticing showcase of operatic talent and beauty as a bonus.

Top Five Females From Enjoy Opera

So as not to show favoritism, and accounting for personal taste, these talented women are listed in no particular order.

Alessandra Coletti: The youngest of this group, this early 20's raven haired sensation has attracted critical praise from even the most jaded opera critics. Born in Milan, Italy but reared in New York, Alessandra claims one of her first memories as listening to Enrico Caruso records.

Kelly Kaduce: A soprano, Kelly is a rising star whose voice has been described as tender, floating, lusty, and lyrical. She has performed in the title role of Madame Butterfly, and as Violetta in La Traviata.

Kristin Sampson: A graduate of the Apprentice Artist Program, Santa Fe Opera, Kristin is a gifted stage actor as well as opera singer. She is most noted for her recent turn as Mimi in La Boheme.

Sally-Anne Russell: This auburn haired mezzo soprano is well known for over 30 CD's she has released, encompassing not only opera but numerous other musical styles.

Sara Macliver: This Australian soprano successfully balances motherhood and a thriving musical career that takes her across the globe.

Honorable Mention

It wouldn't be a list without an honorable mention, now would it? And that honor goes to Russian soprano Anna Netrebko, who has attained celebrity status in Europe and has often been dubbed the successor to legendary singer Maria Callas.

It just goes to show ... opera has a universal appeal. These rising female stars will undoubtedly carry the opera torch for years to come.