Maria Callas

Opera Soprano Greek-American 1923 – 1977

La Divina whose emotional depth and dramatic intensity redefined opera.

366 quotes

"The stage teaches that life is both beautiful and tragic."
Wisdom
"Art requires that you give more than you think you have to give."
Perseverance
"The voice must serve the truth of the character you portray."
Truth
"I believe that one's legacy is measured by the hearts they touched."
"I am my own sanctuary and I can be reborn as many times as I choose throughout my life."
Life
"The stage is not just a place to perform, it is a place to live."
Art
"I would rather sing one role beautifully than ten roles badly."
Music
"Art requires perfection or it is nothing."
Art
"One cannot dream oneself into a character; it takes hard work to build up a character."
Success
"If I am a diva, then I am a diva who works."
Work
"The mission of every artist is to save the people from the darkness of ignorance."
Art
"I prepare for the worst so I can be ready for the best."
Wisdom
"Music is the most powerful form of communication we have."
Music
"You must be true to yourself always, no matter the consequences."
Truth
"I never had time to ask myself whether I was happy or not."
Happiness
"Art demands everything of you."
Art
"The stage is my life, and my life is the stage."
Life
"To be a great artist, you must first master the technique."
Art
"I have always believed that one person can make a difference."
Leadership
"Beauty is a spiritual thing, not a physical one."
Beauty
"I create meaning through my performances, not just sound."
Creativity
"Success is not measured by fame but by the depth of your art."
Success
"Every note must serve the truth of the character."
Truth
"I sing with my soul, not just my voice."
Music
"Dedication to one's craft is the highest form of respect."
Work
"The audience deserves your absolute best every single time."
Kindness
"Art should elevate the spirit and feed the soul."
Art
"I have never been afraid of hard work or sacrifice."
Courage
"To understand music, you must understand the human condition."
Music
"Perfection is not an accident; it is a discipline."
Perseverance