MARBECKS COLLECTABLE: The Callas Effect

"memorable artistry is evident everywhere - utterly exemplary in its musical intelligence, stirring in its interpretative eloquence. The technique dazzles in marvellously expressive trills...and everywhere, of course, the uniquely penetrating dramatic involvement." International Record Review, January 2012

Maria Callas is the ultimate and original diva. Widely regarded as the greatest Opera singer and performer of all time whose life, voice and performances have intrigued, thrilled and inspired all others.

Maria Callas

34 years after her death Maria Callas remains the definition of a diva. She is not only the world's bestselling soprano but also EMI Classic's bestselling artist of all time. Widely regarded for her intense characterisation and unique interpretations she has become a cultural icon whose music and life continues to influence today.

"Her reputation, extremely high when she died, has become ever greater in the years since her death. As a personality she remains controversial, but as an artist hardly at all: her genius is recognised as supreme by virtually all opera lovers, indeed it is often from listening to her many recordings that people discover what an incredibly potent art form opera can be." BBC Music Magazine

The Music

This wonderfully constructed 2CD collection of opera arias highlights Callas's spectacular climb to fame tracking her move from innocent young woman to the tragic heroine in her later years through the opera arias she recorded.

Featuring the most special and exquisitely interpreted arias of her output this collection brings together such opera favourites as O mio babbino caro, Vissi d'arte and Casta diva.

Callas's recordings have featured prominently in many critically acclaimed movies including Academy Award winner Philadelphia and Academy Award Nominated Milk

Callas is the immortal diva whose music transcends time and sounds as unique and inspired today. Many noted musicians have quoted Callas as a musical influence including Linda Ronstadt, Patti Smith, Emmylou Harris, Celine Dion, Jason Mraz and Rufus Wainwright.