Maria Callas

1923 – 1977

Maria Callas was an American-born Greek soprano widely regarded as one of the most influential opera singers of the 20th century. Her bel canto technique and intensely dramatic interpretations sparked the modern revival of operas by Donizetti, Bellini, and Cherubini that had largely disappeared from the repertoire, and made her the dominant prima donna at La Scala in the 1950s. Her tumultuous personal life—particularly her relationship with shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis—and her early vocal decline have shaped operatic mythology in the decades since.

Last checked: May 10, 2026, 1:06 PM