From Singing for Coins to a 180° Life Change: The Story of the Unemployed Opera Tenor Who Impressed Everyone with His Talent

Pablo Lallana, an opera singer whose talent had been largely unheard amidst the bustle of Buenos Aires' microcentro, experienced a life-altering turn of events thanks to a viral TikTok video. Often performing for spare change near Plaza de Mayo, Lallana's powerful operatic voice was captured by a TikTok user who, unable to offer monetary support, posted the clip hoping it would bring the singer wider recognition.

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I didn't have money to support you, but I hope you go viral here.

The video quickly gained traction, introducing Lallana, who performs under the TikTok handle @OnayberAdenawer, to a massive audience. This unexpected surge in popularity has reportedly led to a significant increase in job offers and professional opportunities, effectively changing the trajectory of his career.

Lallana, whose real name is Pablo Lallana (@tenorliricoar), shared his journey with LA NACION. His musical path began at age ten with piano studies at the Misiones Superior School of Music, where he also sang in various choirs for about a decade. He later moved to Buenos Aires in 2002 to pursue further studies and career opportunities, including a two-year stint at the Instituto CanZion.

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I started studying piano at age ten at the Misiones Superior School of Music, where for about a decade I also participated in various choirs.

His formal operatic training commenced in 2012 at the Coro Estable del Centro del Conocimiento in Misiones. Despite his passion for rock music, Lallana found himself captivated by the world of opera. He received consistent training from vocal coaches and theater professionals, including those from prestigious institutions like the Teatro Colón and Teatro San Martín. He also continued his studies in Buenos Aires.

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During those years, I had constant training with singing teachers, vocal coaches, and professionals linked to the theater, as well as working with artists and teachers from institutions like the Teatro Colón and Teatro San Martín.

Facing periods of scarce work, Lallana even lived abroad for a time, seeking opportunities in Brazil and Chile before settling back in Buenos Aires, which he considered a hub of cultural and artistic activity. His story highlights how a single moment of online exposure can dramatically alter the fortunes of an artist, bringing hidden talents to light.

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I chose to settle in Buenos Aires because I consider it a city with enormous cultural, tourist, and artistic activity, and where there are many possibilities for a singer who wants to develop a different project.