The record company considered securing Maria Callas, the acclaimed opera singer, for this recording of Carmen a major achievement.
Recording & Production
The Carmen recording sessions began two weeks after Maria Callas's final performance in a new staging of Norma at the Paris Opéra, finding her in magnificent voice.
Album & Artwork
This recording of Bizet's Carmen was originally released on LP in elaborate red and gold faux-leather luxury packaging with three separate booklets.
Performer Biography
Maria Callas had previously only sung two first-act arias from Carmen in a 1962 TV concert, despite opera houses worldwide trying to persuade her to perform the full role.
Interpretation
Despite expectations of a violent interpretation, Maria Callas's Carmen performance is noted for its infinite subtlety and detail, bringing the character vividly to life with inner fire and control.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Maria Callas believed Carmen behaved like a man in her romantic affairs, taking lovers as she pleased, which contrasted with Callas's own romantic and feminine nature.
