Callas at Juilliard: The Mater Classes

Maria Callas returned to the stage in 1971 to teach master classes at Juilliard. This intriguing forum later inspired Terrence McNally's acclaimed play Master Class. Outspoken and uncompromising in her artistic beliefs, Callas worked through her legendary arias from Mozart, Verdi, Rossini, Puccini, and others. John Ardoin brilliantly captures the insights of a thoughtful singer who reveals herself to be not the imperious diva of her reputation, but a supremely self-aware artist concerned with passing along a great musical tradition.

Library Journal

After the celebrated soprano ceased public performances in 1965 she spent years in self-study analyzing every detail of interpretation. The result was a series of master classes in 1971-72 at the Juilliard School of Music. The noted critic of the Dallas Morning News has condensed tapes of the classes into an extremely valuable discussion not only of Callas's distinguished roles but of roles for the other voices as well. The book is organized by composer and within composer by aria. It is richly illustrated by musical examplesnot as they appear in the score, but as Callas suggested they be interpreted. Highly recommended for all voice students and as a manual of performance practice. William Shank, CUNY Graduate Sch. Lib.