Maria Callas, born Maria Anna Cecilia Sophia Kalogeropoulos (December 2, 1923 to September 16, 1977) was an American-born Greek soprano and one of the most renowned and influential opera singers of the 20th century. Many critics praised her bel canto technique, wide-ranging voice and dramatic interpretations. Her repertoire ranged from classical opera seria to the bel canto operas of Donizetti, Bellini, and Rossini, and further to the works of Verdi, Pucciniand Wagner. Her musical and dramatic talents led to her being hailed as La Divina ("The Divine One"). The following recordings are from 1959 and 1962 TV interviews.