Nicola Martinucci

Nicola Martinucci (born 28 March 1941) is an Italian opera singer, particularly noted for his performances in the spinto tenor of roles Calaf in Turandot, Radamès in Aida, and the title role in Andrea Chénier. Life and career Martinucci was born in Taranto, Italy. He did not begin studying singing until his 20s. With the encouragement of Mario Del Monaco he studied in Milan with Marcello Del Monaco (Mario's brother) and with Sara Sforni. He made his debut in 1966 at the Teatro Nuovo in Milan as Manrico in Il Trovatore. In 1966 he had won the Viotti International Music Competition which led to further debuts in Italian opera houses. He later appeared La Scala from 1983 where he reprised the role of Manrico as well as singing Calaf, Radamès, Luigi in Il tabarro and Oronte in I Lombardi; La Fenice where he appeared from 1984 as Calaf, Radames, and Cavaradossi in Tosca; and the Arena di Verona, where he between 1982 and 1986 he sang Radamès, Calaf, and Andrea Chenier.

In his later years, Martinucci has taught masterclasses in singing and served on the juries of several singing competitions. His daughter Leyla is also an opera singer. Several of Martinucci's performances have been released on video, including Aida and Turandot from the Arena di Verona.