Maria Callas, Maria Callas, 1981 Quotes

A collection of quotes by Maria Callas, Maria Callas, 1981.

Maria Callas, born on December 2, 1923, in New York City, was an acclaimed Greek-American soprano and one of the most renowned opera singers of the 20th century. Her full name was Maria Anna Cecilia Sofia Kalogeropoulos, but she later adopted her mother's maiden name, Callas, as her stage name.

Callas' early life was marked by hardship and determination. She faced a difficult childhood and her family struggled financially during the Great Depression. However, her vocal talent was evident from a young age, and she began pursuing music seriously. She studied at the Athens Conservatoire and made her professional debut in 1941, at the age of 18, in Athens.

Callas soon gained international recognition for her exceptional vocal abilities and intense stage presence. She became extremely popular in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly for her interpretations of the bel canto repertoire, including roles in operas by composers such as Bellini, Donizetti, and Rossini. Known for her powerful dramatic interpretations and extraordinary vocal range, she captivated audiences around the world.

Despite her musical success, Callas endured personal struggles, including a tumultuous relationship with Aristotle Onassis, a Greek shipping magnate. She faced vocal decline in the 1960s, retiring from the stage in 1965. Callas then focused on teaching and performing occasional concerts.

Maria Callas passed away on September 16, 1977, in Paris, France, at the age of 53. Her legacy as a singer and an artist continues to inspire generations of opera singers and music enthusiasts worldwide. She remains an icon of opera, revered for her passionate performances and her ability to bring vivid emotional depth to her roles.