Fleming became a standout when music directors and fellow singers noticed that she possessed two vocal qualities that are often mutually exclusive in the opera world: power and nuance. The Pennsylvania native, daughter of not one, but two voice teachers, has also benefited from careful selection of repertoire. This systematic building of the voice helps artists avoid the untoward strains that come with singing only heavier works like Verdi's Otello. Mozart has been a staple for Fleming through the years, as she premiered new works like Andre Previn's A Streetcar Named Desire and John Corigliano's The Ghosts of Versailles. Having performed with the Metropolitan Opera, the Vienna State Opera, and at La Scala, the Juilliard graduate finally had the confidence in her place at the top of the list of active sopranos. A Michael Bolton collaboration, while not garnering any critical favor, gained her droves of new fans, as did her appearance on the Lord of the Rings: Return of the King soundtrack.
Pop music escapades aside, Fleming remains the most revered soprano working today. That Miami's ready to receive her with a world-class orchestra and a state-of-the-art venue is cause for celebration.
