Ewa Podles

Ewa Maria Podleś was a Polish coloratura contralto singer renowned for her extraordinary vocal agility and an impressive range spanning over three octaves. Born in Warsaw in 1952, Podleś's career took her to the world's most prestigious stages, including the Metropolitan Opera, Teatro alla Scala, and the Royal Opera House. She was celebrated for her performances in Rossini roles such as Rosina in "Il barbiere di Siviglia" and the title roles in "La Cenerentola" and "Tancredi." Her unique voice also allowed her to excel in Handel's castrato roles, like Rinaldo and Giulio Cesare. Podleś's powerful and versatile voice made her one of the most authentic contraltos of her generation, earning her widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Her legacy continues to inspire, showcasing the incredible potential of the contralto voice.