I have heard of this singer. Is she good?
oh sen-TEE-toh par-LA-reh dee KWES-tah kan-TAN-teh. eh BRA-vah.
When you recognise a name in the cast and want a local or knowledgeable person's opinion. Italians are often very frank in their assessments of opera singers.
Ho sentito parlare di means I have heard of (literally 'I have heard spoken of'). Questa cantante is this singer (feminine). È brava means is she good — brava is the feminine form of bravo.
È considerata una delle migliori del momento?
Is she considered one of the best at the moment?
Asking for a comparative ranking.
Ha una voce eccezionale?
Does she have an exceptional voice?
Asking specifically about vocal quality.
Ha cantato alla Scala?
Has she sung at La Scala?
La Scala is the benchmark for Italian soprano careers.
The 'golden triangle' of opera careers for Italian singers consists of La Scala (Milan), San Carlo (Naples), and La Fenice (Venice). A soprano who has conquered all three is considered truly established. The Metropolitan Opera in New York and Vienna State Opera are the international benchmarks.