José Carreras: A voice that transcends time, back on the world stage
Few operatic tenors have a name synonymous with elegance, passion, and musical excellence, and José Carreras is certainly one of them. His career, spanning several decades, is marked not only by extraordinary vocal abilities but also by the emotional power of his performances that touch even the coldest hearts. Although Carreras is known for his interpretations of Verdi's and Puccini's works, the wider public often recognizes him as one of the famous Three Tenors – along with Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti – who redefined the popularity of classical music worldwide.
In the year 2025 / 2026, Carreras once again takes the stage for a select number of concert dates across Europe, including exclusive performances in spectacular concert halls. Although he is a performer who has been at the top of the world stage for years, each of his new concerts is experienced as a special and unrepeatable event. His performances are more than just a musical event – they are emotional celebrations of life, art, and human connection.
Carreras's musical journey began in his early childhood in Barcelona, where he made his first public appearance at the age of eight. Throughout his rich career, he has performed in the world's most prestigious opera houses – from La Scala in Milan to the Metropolitan Opera in New York – and collaborated with the most renowned conductors, singers, and orchestras. Despite health challenges, including a battle with leukemia, Carreras returned to the stage stronger than ever, inspiring millions with his artistic and personal triumphs.
In addition to his contribution to the art of opera, José Carreras remains a humanitarian of exceptional caliber. His foundation for the fight against leukemia funds medical research and helps patients worldwide, earning him admiration beyond musical circles. When Carreras steps on stage, the audience listens not only to masterfully performed arias but also to a man who has poured his life experience into music full of soul and sincerity.
In the year 2025 / 2026, Carreras's performances will be a rare opportunity for all true music lovers to witness live the elegance and power of a voice that has defined an entire musical era. Whether you are a long-time fan or just discovering the charms of opera music, a José Carreras concert is an experience not to be missed.
Why you should see José Carreras live
- Spectacular performance – Each of Carreras's performances is meticulously directed, and his penetrating, yet warm tenor leaves the audience breathless. Artistic precision and deep emotionality make every concert an unforgettable experience.
- Popular songs live – Arias like "Nessun Dorma," "La donna è mobile," and "Granada" are among the most anticipated, while his personal favorites add extra authenticity to the program.
- Energetic connection with the audience – Carreras's ability to connect with the audience is one of his strongest assets. His glances, gestures, and warm words between performances create a sense of intimacy and gratitude.
- Visual and stage elements – Although stage effects are not his main focus, carefully designed lighting and elegant production perfectly support his musical message.
- Audience reactions and reviews – Every concert is followed by ovations and strong emotional reactions. Critics praise his consistency, while the audience highlights the feeling of 'pure magic' that envelops his performances.
- Recent performances and tours – At recent concerts in Rome, Vienna, and Munich, Carreras has shown an enviable level of form, and many believe that his interpretation becomes deeper and more personal with age.
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Carreras has never strived for glamour nor allowed his popularity to overshadow his dedication to art. It is this modesty and professionalism that make him one of the most respected performers in the history of classical music. His stage presence exudes elegance and subtlety, and his interpretations are always nuanced to perfection. This is why he is loved by both classical opera connoisseurs and audiences who are just entering the world of this musical genre.
When José Carreras takes the stage, you don't just come to listen to a singer – you come to experience moments that blur the lines between past and present, between tradition and modernity. His voice, although naturally matured over the years, retains the same expressiveness and control that made him famous back in the 70s and 80s of the last century. The audience witnesses a unique combination of experience and emotion that creates silence in concert halls, followed by applause that never ends.
Although Carreras focused on operatic roles during his career, a significant part of his discography also consists of recitals and interpretations of popular songs, Spanish zarzuelas, and film music. It is this diversity that allows him to reach a wide spectrum of audiences. His voice is also known to music lovers who may have never visited an opera – whether through his performances in world stadiums, at gala events, or on TV broadcasts that have historically attracted tens of millions of viewers.
One of the most important moments of his career was the "Three Tenors" project, where, alongside Pavarotti and Domingo, he redefined the way classical music is presented to the world. This project not only attracted millions of new classical music listeners but also showed how opera performers can easily cross the line between elite art and mass culture without losing their integrity.
In the year 2025 / 2026, José Carreras continues to represent a symbol of excellence, elegance, and passion for music. His concerts are not just the return of a great artist to the stage – they are an ode to a time when music had the power to deeply touch the human soul. Tickets for his performances are becoming a rarity, and each new date on his tour is seen as a privilege for those who manage to secure their spot.
Music critics often point out that Carreras has a special talent for creating a "natural crescendo" – a feeling that slowly builds throughout the performance, guiding the listener through an emotional narrative. His phrasing, breath control, and carefully constructed dynamic lines are not learned from textbooks – this is musical wisdom derived from decades of experience and complete dedication.
The repertoire of his concerts regularly includes works by Verdi, Bizet, Puccini, as well as traditional Spanish songs that Carreras interprets with an authentic accent and emotional depth. The audience particularly appreciates his performance of the song "El día que me quieras," as well as Neapolitan classics like "Core ‘ngrato" or "O sole mio," which he sings with as much passion as operatic arias.
At a recent concert in Zurich, the audience gave a ten-minute standing ovation for his performance of the aria "E lucevan le stelle" from Puccini's Tosca. Many testified that Carreras's voice, though somewhat softer, still gets under your skin with its warmth and sincerity. This reaction was not an exception – at every one of his concerts, the audience is moved by his directness, and even by the quiet moments between songs when his non-verbal communication conveys a sense of gratitude and respect for those present.
It is interesting that Carreras still travels with the same team of musicians he has been collaborating with for years, and his personal conductor has been with him for almost a decade. This creates a special synergy on stage – the orchestra and the performer breathe as one, which further enhances the quality of the performance.
For first-time fans, it is often a surprise how personal a classical music concert can be. In every performance, Carreras manages to convey a message that transcends words and notes. His music has a healing, calming effect and raises awareness of what is truly important – the power of a voice that carries emotions without the need for additional explanations.
In the year 2025 / 2026, José Carreras once again shows how top-tier art does not age but becomes deeper, more authentic, and more moving with the years. His concerts are not just musical events – they are a lesson in dignity, perseverance, and the beauty of art that connects people regardless of language, origin, or age.
How to prepare for an unforgettable musical experience with José Carreras?
Before you step into the magical world of a performance by José Carreras, it's good to keep in mind a few practical tips that can significantly enhance your experience. First of all, inquire about **tickets** – they are often available in a range from about €103 to €153 for his evening performances, such as the concert at Cankarjev dom in Ljubljana, where doors open at 20:00. At concerts in Croatia, for example in Pula, prices are also affordable, with an additional service and postage fee of €1.
When planning your arrival, carefully consider transportation and accommodation. If the event lasts late into the night,
accommodation nearby can be an excellent option for resting after an emotionally intense evening. Booking early will reduce stress and increase the chances of getting a good price.
Another useful tip concerns your arrival – arrive with time to spare, especially if the concert is held in a larger venue. This allows for a calm entry, finding your seat, and preparing for the musical experience. Check the parking schedule, public transport, and if you need to stay overnight, consider options in the vicinity of the event location –
accommodation in the immediate vicinity provides additional comfort.
Interesting facts about José Carreras you might not have known
José Carreras is an exceptional figure not only in the opera world but also in humanitarian activities. After beating leukemia, he founded the José Carreras Leukaemia Foundation – an initiative that has provided support to numerous patients and research projects around the world.
Also, his career includes more than 60 operatic roles that he has performed in the world's most prestigious opera houses. The audience particularly remembers him for his legendary performance with the "Three Tenors" project – a collaboration with Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti – which managed to unite high art and mass culture without losing authenticity.
His discography includes a diverse repertoire – from arias by Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti to Spanish zarzuelas and film music – which allows him to reach audiences with different musical preferences.
What to expect at a José Carreras concert?
If you are curious about what you can hear and experience, favorite songs like "El día que me quieras," "Granada," and "O sole mio" are often an integral part of his repertoire. The audience can expect emotional interpretations performed with an orchestra led by David Giménez, which further enhances the musical synergy.
His performances are tracked as true encounters between the artist and the audience – with moving performances, high artistic precision, and a warmth of voice that remains in memory. The atmosphere, often marked by silence before the outbreak of ovations, will make you feel every moment intensely.
The audience at these concerts usually includes true opera lovers, but also those who appreciate emotion and a voice that speaks without words. Expect a warm, somewhat intimate atmosphere that José Carreras builds with his voice, his gaze, and subtle moments of communication with the audience.
In addition to the musical magic, it is also important to pay attention to details that can improve the overall experience of attending a José Carreras concert. Many visitors who come from other cities or countries often combine the concert with a short trip and stay. If the concert is held in a historic city center or a large concert hall, like Lisinski, Pula Arena, or the Vienna Stadthalle, secure
accommodation nearby in advance to avoid traffic jams and enjoy the evening without rushing. Numerous hotels and apartments are located just a few minutes' walk from the venues, which can be crucial on evenings when events last late.
At many of his concerts, the audience comes from all over Europe, so destinations like Vienna, Budapest, Ljubljana, and Zagreb are also ideal for a cultural weekend. Besides enjoying the music, visitors can take the opportunity to explore local culture, museums, restaurants, and sights. In this context, planned
accommodation becomes key to a pleasant stay.
Some of the most sought-after accommodation options during Carreras's concerts are boutique hotels in the city center, smaller luxury apartments, and hotels with a view of the event location. Due to high demand, timely booking is recommended. If you are looking for a combination of comfort, proximity, and a quiet environment, be sure to explore
accommodation that offers flexible cancellation policies and additional services like late check-in or breakfast in the room.
When we talk about the concerts themselves, Carreras often prepares surprises for the audience – whether it's guest musicians, extra songs in the encore, or intimate messages addressed to the listeners. For example, during his performance in Vienna, he thanked the audience for decades of loyalty and performed an additional song, "Non ti scordar di me," which caused a strong emotional reaction from the audience.
The set list at concerts can vary depending on the location and the thematic framework of the evening, but often includes:
- "Granada" – a traditional Spanish song with a powerful interpretation
- "Nessun Dorma" – an essential aria made famous by the Three Tenors
- "La donna è mobile" – recognizable, dynamic, and a favorite among the audience
- "Core ’ngrato" – an emotional Neapolitan ballad that Carreras sings with special fervor
- "E lucevan le stelle" – an aria from Tosca, performed with a special sense of sadness and melancholy
- "El día que me quieras" – a romantic and melancholic song that combines Spanish spirit and classical technique
In addition to arias and popular songs, Carreras often performs rarely heard works that reveal deeper layers of classical and traditional music to the audience. In this way, his concerts also become an educational moment for all present – an opportunity to discover works that are not part of the everyday musical repertoire but deserve attention.
A particularly moving moment is when Carreras shares a personal story or memory related to a particular song with the audience. Then the space falls silent, and every word, every note gains additional weight. This is not just music – it is a sincere encounter between the artist and the audience. It is precisely this emotional openness that makes his concerts so unique.
It should also be mentioned that José Carreras is extremely dedicated to the quality of sound and the acoustics of the venue. His team often collaborates with the hall's technicians to achieve the ideal balance between the orchestra and the vocals. In cities like Vienna, Prague, Ljubljana, and Zagreb, this means that every note reaches the audience with a clarity and precision that you can rarely experience elsewhere.
The audience attending his performances is diverse – from music students to retirees, from local opera enthusiasts to tourists who want to experience something authentic and emotional. They all have one thing in common – the desire to escape from everyday life for a moment and surrender to a sound that transcends the boundaries of time and language.
For those coming from other cities, it is useful to know that the locations where Carreras performs are often well connected by public transport. However, due to crowds and the late finish of concerts, it is recommended to secure
accommodation near the venue so you can relax after the concert without worrying about getting home. Many places also offer the option of a late check-out, which further adds to the comfort.
We also note that José Carreras's concerts are known for their excellent organization and careful logistics. Ushers, reception, and venue staff provide all the information needed for a pleasant stay. With the purchase of a ticket, you often receive a program leaflet or booklet containing interesting facts about the repertoire and the history of the performances, which further enriches the experience.
The audience often chooses seats closer to the stage for a better experience of facial expressions and contact with the performer, but even the back rows are not deprived of quality – the halls where Carreras performs are known for their excellent acoustics. If you are looking for a compromise between price and view, the middle rows of the central section of the hall often offer the best value.
Carreras's concerts in the year 2025 / 2026 remain a true highlight of the season for all classical music lovers. His energy, experience, and charisma make him a performer worth hearing at least once in a lifetime. Regardless of whether you decide on a concert in a major European capital or a more intimate setting of a regional center, the experience will be unforgettable. And if you haven't secured your
accommodation yet, now is the right time to do so.