Luciano Pavarotti (12 October 1935 - 6 September 2007), an Italian tenor, w… Read Full Bio ↴Luciano Pavarotti (12 October 1935 - 6 September 2007), an Italian tenor, was one of the most famous singers of the past century, not only in the world of opera and classical music, but across all genres. He was born in Modena to the family of a baker. After abandoning the dream to become a professional football goalkeeper, Pavarotti spent seven years in vocal training and began his career as a tenor in 1961 in Italy. He sang in houses in the Netherlands, Vienna, London, Ankara, Budapest, and Barcelona.

He soon gained fame due to the power and strength of his voice. The young tenor earned valuable experience and significant recognition while touring on the invitation of soprano Joan Sutherland, making his 1965 U.S. debut in Miami, Florida on her recommendation. His position was solidified in the years between 1966 and 1972, during which Pavarotti first appeared at Milan's seminal La Scala, at other major European houses, and, in 1968, at NYC's Metropolitan Opera. He received great acclaim, particularly working well with Joan Sutherland.

By the mid-70s, the tenor became known worldwide, famed for the brilliance and beauty of his tone, especially into the upper register. His "high C" became one of his trademarks. The late 70s and 80s saw Pavarotti making significant appearances in the world's opera houses and establishing himself as one of the great singers of the era.

Popular stardom came at the 1990 World Cup in Italy with the performances of "Nessun Dorma" (from Turandot) and as one of The Three Tenors in their famed first concert held on the eve of the final match of the tournament (repeated at later Cups). Pavarotti sang together with fellow star tenors Plácido Domingo and José Carreras and brought to the much wider audience hits previously confined to the opera world. Appearances in advertisements and with pop icons in concerts around the world furthered his influence. Pavarotti always maintained his identity as an opera star, unlike many crossover artists.

The later years brought a decline in ability to perform on stage due to a weight gain and lack of mobility. Pavarotti's final appearance in an opera was at the Met in March 2004. The 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy saw him performing for the last time. Pavarotti sang Nessun Dorma, with the crowd as its Chorus, and got a thunderous standing ovation. On September 6, 2007, he died at home in Modena from pancreatic cancer.

Ave Maria CG 89a
Luciano Pavarotti Lyrics

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Ave Maria
Gratia plena
Maria
Gratia plena
Maria
Gratia plena
Ave, Ave Dominus
Dominus Tecum

Benedicta tu imulieribus
Et benedictus
Benedictus fructus

Ventristui, Jesus
Ave Maria

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Ave Maria" are a prayer to the Virgin Mary, expressing gratitude for her grace and blessings. The repetition of the phrase "Gratia plena" highlights the significance of this grace, as the singer implores the blessings that are upon Mary to be upon themselves as well. The following lines specifically address Jesus, the fruit of Mary's womb, acknowledging him as the Lord and asking for his blessings as well. The final repetition of "Ave Maria" echoes the opening of the prayer, bringing the focus back to Mary as the source of grace and inspiration.

Line by Line Meaning

Ave Maria
Hail Mary

Gratia plena
Full of grace

Maria
Mary

Gratia plena
Full of grace

Maria
Mary

Gratia plena
Full of grace

Ave, Ave Dominus
Hail, Hail Lord

Dominus Tecum
The Lord is with thee

Benedicta tu imulieribus
Blessed art thou amongst women

Et benedictus
And blessed

Benedictus fructus
The fruit of thy womb