Magda Olivero’s exceptional performance on the day of the Assumption of Mary in 2006 left an unforgettable impression on all those present. The operatic soprano’s commitment to her craft was undeniable as she sang two religious songs, including a miraculous rendition of Franck’s ‘Panis Angelicus’. Her angelic, powerful, and passionate voice had the ability to send chills down listeners’ spines due to its crystal-clear quality and tone.
Olivero’s talent was well-recognized, with American Record Guide writing a review in 1997 that proclaimed her to be the supreme ruler of her craft, singing with abandon and fervour that left the audience exhausted. A critic in 1951 also had nothing but praise for the verismo soprano, highlighting her extraordinary intensity both musically and dramatically.
The verismo style, known for its drama, was perfectly suited to Olivero’s voice, and she delivered unforgettable performances in major roles such as Tosca in Puccini’s ‘Tosca’ and Medea in Luigi Cherubini’s ‘Medea.’ The singer’s obituary in The Guardian revealed that she had a particular fondness for holding onto soft notes for extended periods before exploding them with a fast crescendo, while her lower register had weighty mezzoish tones that made her performances seem the epitome of the age of verismo.
Although Olivero has passed away, her exceptional talent continues to transcend time, and her voice brings joy to all those who listen to her incredible performances. Her legacy lives on, and those who never had the opportunity to see her perform live can still experience her magic through recordings and videos. The world will always remember Magda Olivero as one of the greatest operatic sopranos of all time.
