Sold For $1,479
*Includes Buyers Premium
ALS in Italian, signed “Maria,” three pages, 8.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, January 20, 1968. Handwritten letter to Spanish coloratura soprano Elvira de Hidalgo, under whom she had studied. In part (translated): "I didn't write to you before because I had no news other than the usual routine transition. I have been studying alone (the pianist went to America) and only a week ago I found a new path or rather rediscovered the old one. I am rebuilding everything. We'll see. In any case, this wasn't the case before. So I have nothing to lose at this point…If it works, it works, otherwise I will give everything up." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Callas's own hand, incorporating her name ("M. Callas") on the flap.
Maria Callas’s artistic formation was profoundly shaped by her affiliation with Elvira de Hidalgo, the renowned Spanish coloratura soprano who became her principal teacher in Athens during World War II. De Hidalgo trained Callas in the rigorous traditions of bel canto technique, emphasizing vocal flexibility, precise ornamentation, and expressive musical phrasing. This mentorship laid the technical and stylistic foundation that enabled Callas to revive and redefine the bel canto repertoire, combining formidable vocal skill with intense dramatic interpretation.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$100.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
Third-party authentication service applies only to signatures and handwriting, and does not cover the addition of sketches, artwork, musical quotations, etc.
