What a fantastic download. Firstly, the voice of Maria Callas, in this sample of her work there are so many contrasting emotions, love, joy, happiness, sadness, anger, regret etc. Secondly the range of operas that this selection opens up, there are 43 operas represented, from the familiar: Carmen, La Traviata, Tosca to the less familiar Medea, Un Ballo Maschero, Ernani to the unknown (to me) Il Pirata, La Vestale, Le Pardon de Peomel. So it alerts your ears to new possibilities. Thirdly the soundscape is good excellent orchestras the Philharmonia and La Scala being the most represented and excellent conductors Serafin and Pretre together with Resigno, Votto, Karajan etc. Lastly the generosity, over 4 hours of good music.
The fame and legacy of Maria Callas are nearly unsurpassed in the modern history of opera. Her fame has transcended the usual boundaries of classical music, and she has been the inspiration for several movies, an opera, and a successful Broadway musical. Her extensive catalogue of recordings remains among the most coveted and controversial for both her fans and detractors.
The fame and legacy of Maria Callas are nearly unsurpassed in the modern history of opera. Her fame has transcended the usual boundaries of classical music, and she has been the inspiration for several movies, an opera, and a successful Broadway musical. Her extensive catalogue of recordings remains among the most coveted and controversial for both her fans and detractors.
Maria Callas (born Maria Anna Cecilia Sophie Kalogeropoulou), was an American-born Greek soprano who was one of the most renowned and influential opera singers of the 20th century. Many critics praised her bel canto technique, wide-ranging voice and dramatic interpretations. Her repertoire ranged from classical opera seria to the bel canto operas of Donizetti, Bellini and Rossini and, further, to the works of Verdi and Puccini; and, in her early career, to the music dramas of Wagner. Her musical and dramatic talents led to her being hailed as La Divina ("the Divine one").