Sumi Jo Becomes First Asian Artist to Receive Special Maria Callas Award

World-renowned soprano Sumi Jo has made history by becoming the first Asian artist to be honored with the special Maria Callas Award at its 12th ceremony.

The prestigious award ceremony was held in Verona, Italy, on August 2nd. The Maria Callas Award, established to commemorate the legendary 20th-century diva Maria Callas, recognizes artists who have made significant contributions to opera and classical music worldwide.

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August 2, 1947, the diva of the century Maria Callas made her historic opera debut in Verona, Italy. Seventy-nine years later, on the same day and in the same city, receiving the 12th special Maria Callas Award in her honor is an unparalleled honor.

Jo, who is celebrating her 40th anniversary in the music industry this year, expressed her profound honor. "August 2, 1947, the diva of the century Maria Callas made her historic opera debut in Verona, Italy," she remarked. "Seventy-nine years later, on the same day and in the same city, receiving the 12th special Maria Callas Award in her honor is an unparalleled honor."

She added, "As this award bears the name of a great artist who illuminated an era, I will cherish it as a precious moment I will never forget for my entire life." Jo released her album 'CONTINUUM' in May to mark her four-decade career.

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As this award bears the name of a great artist who illuminated an era, I will cherish it as a precious moment I will never forget for my entire life.