Opera Legend Maria Callas: Why She Still Matters

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) presents Opera Legend Maria Callas: Why She Still Matters. This 4 session lecture series will be held Thursdays, Oct. 12-Nov. 2, 1-2:20 pm. $70 per person.

One hundred years ago on this December 2, Greek- American soprano Maria Callas — the most influential and controversial opera singer of the 20th century — was born in New York City. She died suddenly in 1977 in Paris at age 53, three years after completing an international comeback recital tour that proved to be her farewell to the stage.

Despite a vocal prime lasting barely 10 years, her legend continues to grow. Callas even became enshrined in pop culture as the glamorous mistress dumped by Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis upon his marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy — the scandalous subject of a Jeopardy! clue just this year.

With lectures and recordings played in class and assigned as homework, we’ll survey Callas’ intriguing life and unparalleled career.

OLLI membership ($25) required.