Definition

Proper noun * Maria Callas: A world-renowned Greek-American operatic soprano, celebrated for her extraordinary vocal range, technical mastery, and intense dramatic interpretations, particularly in bel canto and dramatic soprano roles. She was a dominant figure in opera during the mid-20th century.

Usage

• As a subject: is often considered one of the greatest opera singers of all time.
• In possessive form: The power of voice was matched by her compelling stage presence.
• As an object: Many modern sopranos study the recordings of .

Examples

• famously performed the title role in Bellini's .
• The biography explores the life and career of .
• Her interpretation of Violetta in is a definitive performance.

Advanced Usage

• "The Callas sound": Used to describe the unique, instantly recognizable timbre and emotional quality of her voice.
  • Even in early recordings, you can identify the distinctive Callas sound.
• "A Callas-like intensity": Used as a comparative standard for dramatic commitment in performance.
  • The young singer brought a Callas-like intensity to the mad scene.

Variants and Related Words

• Callas (noun): A common shortened reference to Maria Callas.
  • Callas remains the benchmark for the role of Tosca.
• La Divina (Italian, meaning "The Divine One"): A reverential nickname given to her by admirers and the press.

Synonyms

• The Prima Donna Assoluta (a term for an exceptional leading female opera singer)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To have a Callas moment": (In informal, modern usage within arts criticism) To deliver a performance of supreme dramatic power and vocal risk-taking, often under great personal or professional pressure.
  • In the final act, the soprano truly had a Callas moment, stunning the audience into silence.

Noun

1. Greek coloratura soprano (born in the United States) known for her dramatic intensity in operatic roles (1923-1977)