Callas at Juilliard: The Master Classes

By John Ardoin – A Profound Insight into the Artistry of Maria Callas

Full Title: Callas at Juilliard: The Master Classes
Author: John Ardoin
ISBN: 9781574670424 / 978-1574670424
Binding: Paperback

Book Overview

In 1971, legendary soprano Maria Callas returned to the stage—not to perform, but to teach master classes at Juilliard. These classes, where Callas shared her artistic wisdom with 25 fortunate students, became a defining moment in the world of opera.

A quarter-century later, Terrence McNally’s acclaimed play Master Class drew inspiration from this remarkable event. John Ardoin’s transcription, now available in this volume, meticulously captures Callas' unparalleled artistry, offering an in-depth exploration of her musical interpretations, technique, and dramatic instincts.

Through detailed commentaries on 75 arias, Callas guides her students in understanding the depths of iconic operatic roles, from Norma and Violetta to Mimì and Tosca. Rather than embodying the imperious diva of legend, she appears here as a passionate, self-aware artist, eager to pass on the grand tradition of opera performance.

Key Features & Insights

• A Detailed Transcription of Callas’ Juilliard master classes, offering a rare glimpse into her artistic philosophy and teaching methods.

• Discussions on 75 Arias from Mozart, Verdi, Rossini, Puccini, and more, with hundreds of musical examples.

• A Must-Read for Singers & Opera Lovers, providing timeless wisdom on vocal technique, interpretation, and emotional depth.

• A Lasting Legacy – These classes remain an essential part of Callas' artistic contributions, shaping generations of opera performers.

Interesting Facts

Maria Callas' teaching at Juilliard was one of her final great contributions to the world of opera.
Terrence McNally's Master Class was directly inspired by these legendary lessons.
Accompanist Eugene Kohn and student Sheila Nadler were among those who witnessed Callas’ masterful guidance firsthand.
Callas emphasized not just vocal technique, but the deep emotional and dramatic truth behind every aria.

Who Should Read This Book?

✅ Aspiring opera singers seeking firsthand knowledge from one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
✅ Music students and educators looking to understand Callas’ unique approach to interpretation.
✅ Opera lovers and historians interested in an in-depth exploration of Callas' musical genius.
✅ Anyone fascinated by classical music and vocal performance techniques.

Publisher Information

• Author: John Ardoin

• Title: Callas at Juilliard: The Master Classes

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Have you read Callas at Juilliard? What insights did you gain from her teachings? Let us know your thoughts!

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