Maria Callas sings Normas final scene (1955)

Norma was sung once again by Maria Meneghini Callas. Mme. Callas, as it is known from her own statements, never reads the critiques that concern her, in order not to be influenced by opinions outside those of the public or her own artistic conscience. And this can be a good thing, provided of course that due note be taken of the publics judgment, as Mme. Callas in fact does. The audience did appreciate a great deal of her interpretation during the first three scenes, but it wasnt until the fourth and final scene that it showed its total admiration with long and enthusiastic cheering. When the drama reached its most intense excitement, namely in the last scene, the audience was enchanted by the singers greatness; and we dont mind sharing the audiences verdict. The duet In mia mano alfin tu sei (with Callass great insight, among other things, into the most artistically valid accent on the words Pei figli tuoi); and the final prayer Deh Non volerli vittime, heard last night, remain a