Tenor Jorge de León Named Best Singer at 2024-2025 Ópera XXI Awards

Tenerife-born tenor Jorge de León has solidified his status as one of opera’s most reliable voices, recently winning "Best Singer" for the 2024-2025 season at the Ópera XXI Awards. Held at Barcelona’s Gran Teatre del Liceu, the ceremony is organized by an association representing Spain’s leading opera and zarzuela theaters, making the award a significant professional milestone.

The jury recognized de León for his technical mastery in demanding, high-stakes roles. His standout performances included Radamés in Verdi’s Aida in Málaga and Oviedo, the title role in Otello for the ABAO Bilbao Opera, and Calàf in Puccini’s Turandot at Seville’s Teatro de la Maestranza. His ability to handle such complex repertoire with vocal stamina and maturity has firmly established him as a leader in the Spanish opera scene.

The ceremony honored excellence across 14 categories, highlighting the current state of the national performing arts. Alongside de León, soprano Sabina Puértolas was named best female singer, bass-baritone Manuel Fuentes received the award for best young artist, and American soprano Nadine Sierra was recognized for her international impact.

The event also celebrated technical innovation and creative production. Awards were given to musical director Gustavo Gimeno and a creative team recognized for their work in stage direction, set design, lighting, costumes, and video production. Furthermore, the gala underscored a commitment to preserving and modernizing lyrical heritage, honoring projects like the revival of Manuel García’s El gitano por amor, the contemporary work Benjamin a Portbou, and the La Federica Children’s Musical Company.