Written by Sophia Lambton after years of research, The Callas Imprint, subtitled ‘a centennial biography’, is a fascinating piece of scholarship, almost excessively detailed in scope.
Maria Callas (1923-1977) was, in many ways, the ultimate opera diva, but was also a complex woman who strived for perfection even if her voice and body could not reach it.
Extremely popular throughout her career and beyond, Callas is as well known for her dramatic personal life as her signature roles. Both are explored in Lambton’s text, which quotes from more than 3,000 sources in various languages.
It’s refreshing to find that despite the obvious regard for the subject, this is no hagiography. Vocal limitations and temperamental instability are fully explored alongside career triumphs.
The style is very readable, divided into easily digestible chapters and sections. A well-constructed index clearly pinpoints works and people of interest so you can find out about Norma or Onassis as you wish.
For casual Callas observers, this may well be the only book you need, although I feel that the recordings mentioned could benefit from an appendix on availability for a general audience.
Opera buffs will revel in the detailed exploration of the singer’s vocal capabilities and key arias, including translations and notes on her technique, breathing, and phrasing.
Celebrity biography devotees may enjoy this exploration of the woman behind the artist, presented with warmth, understanding, and empathy.
This is a book I am happy to have on my shelf and have consumed alongside some television interviews with Callas available on BBCiPlayer.
The Callas Imprint is available from Kahn & Averill now, with details here.