What’s a PRIMADONNA (ASSOLUTA)?ost

Glossary: PRIMADONNA (ASSOLUTA)

This post  shows the technical term PRIMADONNA (ASSOLUTA) explained in a few sentences with links to practical examples.

Primadonna assoluta

Originally it was the most important soprano of an ensemble. Afterward it was used over time with negative undertone (magnificent voice but capricious person). Assoluta is a «honorary title» of the most important soprano of her time, beyond that the assoluta is able to sing in different Fach. Maria Callas, for example, was an «Assoluta». Furthermore, especially capricious sopranos are also called «divas».

Peter Lutz, opera inside,  the online opera guide