* Mario Del Monaco (1915–1982) was an Italian operatic tenor. He was one of the most popular and successful tenors of the post-war era, and was particularly renowned for his heroic roles in Verdi operas. Del Monaco was born in Florence, Italy, and studied singing at the Florence Conservatory. He made his professional debut in 1939, and quickly gained a reputation for his powerful voice and dramatic intensity. Del Monaco sang leading roles in many of the world's most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and the Vienna State Opera. He also appeared in several feature films, including "The Great Caruso" (1951) and "The Godfather Part II" (1974).
* Tito Schipa (1888–1965) was an Italian operatic tenor. He was one of the most popular and beloved tenors of the early 20th century, and was particularly renowned for his light, lyrical voice. Schipa was born in Lecce, Italy, and studied singing at the Naples Conservatory. He made his professional debut in 1909, and quickly gained a reputation for his beautiful voice and charming stage presence. Schipa sang leading roles in many of the world's most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and the Vienna State Opera. He also appeared in several feature films, including "The Great Caruso" (1951) and "The Godfather Part II" (1974).