When a young singer is trying to make a career in the opera world, it is common practice to start out with the standard repertoire. Mozart’s Countess has been interpreted by countless sopranos, which again, takes an extraordinary effort to make it individualistic or unique. Therefore, the ones who can breathe new life into such roles are the ones who shine among the dull.
Fleming was able to conquer such a considerable task by sharing her acute ability to create real people in the sound she emits from her distinctive, dark, and above all, consistent tone. Many sopranos can sing high and loud, but her consistency of sensitivity brings a breathtaking shimmer to each and every note she sings. What’s more impressive is her ability to sustain such glorious sounds in a seemingly effortless manner. Her voice does not transport the listener into a whole new world like Callas, nor is her acting ability as stellar, but Fleming’s versatility does bring out an element of human truth from the music, which is always so palpable to her audiences.
Renée Fleming Today
With the brilliant command of her god-given instrument she is a diva, but it is her grounded human nature that brings the music to life. For this reason, she can be found on over 60 different recordings, including over 10 solo albums and numerous opera recordings with the best in the business. She is also featured on The Ultimate Diva's Album alongside Maria Callas, Leontyne Price, and Joan Sutherland. Her marketability has led to recording tracks on the recent Lord of the Rings soundtrack, being the poster girl for Rolex, and having new productions designed specifically for her at prestigious opera houses around the world, including the Met - not to mention annual recital tours that often frequent the Kimmel Center and Carnegie Hall. Many people are blessed with talent, but Renée has reached the top because of her utter commitment, exemplary dedication, and her genuine human nature.
