Despina Scarlatou Paraskevopoulou, a celebrated Greek soprano, has captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful voice and exquisite interpretations of classical and contemporary operatic works. Residing in Athens, Greece, she has graced the stages of prestigious opera houses and theaters across Greece, Italy, and beyond, showcasing a diverse and expansive repertoire.
A Stellar Operatic Career
Despina’s journey in opera began with her early passion for music, nurtured by piano lessons at the age of 12 in her birthplace, Thessaloniki. Her academic pursuits led her to graduate from the Music Department of North College of Thessaloniki and further refine her craft at the Il Tempo Theatre School in Lucca, Italy. Under the mentorship of renowned instructors such as G. Ravazzi, K. Riccarelli, and Th. Rovetta, she developed a vocal technique that would later become her hallmark.
Her performances have delighted audiences in iconic venues, including the Greek National Opera, the State Theater of Northern Greece, Megaron Thessalonikis, and Megaron Athens, as well as Italy’s Teatro Bonci di Cesena. Despina’s roles have ranged from the romantic and dramatic to the comedic and avant-garde, reflecting her artistic versatility and deep understanding of the operatic form.
A Repertoire of Excellence
Despina has mastered an impressive array of operatic roles, bringing to life characters such as:
- Violetta Valéry in La Traviata
- Serpina in La Serva Padrona
- Musetta in La Bohème
- Gilda in Rigoletto
- Adina and Gianetta in L’Elisir d’Amore
- Zerlina in Don Giovanni
- Susanna and Marcellina in Le Nozze di Figaro
She has also portrayed roles in Greek operettas, including Thelo na do ton Papa, Halima, and Apahides of Athens. Her performances resonate with audiences due to her ability to imbue each character with emotional depth and authenticity.
International Recognition and Collaborations
Despina’s talent extends beyond opera houses. She has collaborated with Greek, Italian, and Belgian television and radio networks, delivering unforgettable recitals of classical and popular music. Her performances have enchanted audiences in Switzerland, France, Belgium, and Turkey, solidifying her reputation as a global artist.
Her artistic endeavors have also been immortalized in recordings such as Estasi, Le Ali della Pace, and Il Mio Canto (Caruso), produced in collaboration with AIAC in Naples, Italy.
Awards and Honors
Despina’s extraordinary talent has earned her accolades in numerous international competitions, including:
- Ismaele Voltolini Competition (Mantova, Italy)
- Music Centre Spazio Musica (Orvieto, Italy)
- Primo Palcoscenico (Cesena, Italy)
- Città di Cagliari Luigi Medda Competition (Cagliari, Italy)
- Francesco Cilea Competition (Reggio Calabria, Italy)
- Giuseppe di Stefano Competition (Trapani, Italy)
- Special distinction in the Maria Callas Verdi Voices Competition (RAI1, Italy)
A Life of Artistic Dedication
Throughout her career, Despina has worked with some of the most distinguished directors and conductors, including T. Rovetta, B. De Tomasi, S. Fasoulis, and Fillipe Auguin. Her ability to collaborate with top-tier professionals highlights her adaptability and commitment to artistic excellence.
The Soul of Greek Opera
Despina Scarlatou Paraskevopoulou continues to be a beacon of Greek operatic talent, bringing her rich voice and expressive performances to the global stage. Whether interpreting the classics or venturing into contemporary compositions, she bridges tradition and modernity with unparalleled skill.
Her enduring passion for music and dedication to her craft serve as an inspiration to both her peers and aspiring musicians. As she continues her artistic journey, Despina remains a celebrated figure in the world of opera, embodying the timeless beauty and emotional resonance of the art form.
