Weekly Insight #20: Breathing with Intention
As we begin a new year, intention is often at the forefront—how we approach our goals, relationships, and communication. But intention isn’t just for long-term planning; it’s also in the small, profound moments, like taking a breath.
Maria Callas, one of the most celebrated artists of the 20th century, exemplified this beautifully in her live 1962 concert in Hamburg. Performing the famous Habanera from Carmen, she filled the two minutes of instrumental music before the aria with extraordinary intentionality.
Most singers wouldn’t dare to stay on stage for that long without singing. The silence can feel vulnerable, even overwhelming. But Callas not only dared—she likely wished it to be so. Those two minutes were a masterclass in presence. Her breathing was natural yet purposeful, attuned to the harmony of the moment. By the time she began to sing, the audience was captivated. Her intention was so clear that her voice became an inevitable extension of everything she had already conveyed.
🎥 Watch Callas in Action:
You can witness this extraordinary performance yourself by watching the full video of her Hamburg concert here: Maria Callas performing the Habanera. Her ability to embody the character of Carmen before singing a single note is a powerful reminder of what it means to breathe with intention.
🎤 What Can We Learn from Callas?
Breathing with intention is a profound practice, not just in performance but in leadership and daily life. It’s about being present, prepared, and connected to what truly matters. This kind of intentionality reflects key elements of emotional intelligence:
- Self-Awareness: Callas knew the power of her presence, using breath to ground herself and focus her energy.
- Empathy: By aligning her breath and presence with the character’s emotions, she created a connection with the audience that transcended words.
- Confidence: Her daring use of silence and stillness demonstrated an unshakable belief in her ability to command the moment.
✨ As We Begin the Year: How Can We Use This?
Callas’s artistry reminds us that intention starts with small, mindful acts—like taking a breath. As you think about your intentions for the year ahead, consider:
- Pause Before You Begin: Take a moment to reflect before speaking, acting, or making decisions. What energy do you want to bring to the moment?
- Align with the Present: Pay attention to the harmony around you—your environment, your thoughts, your emotions. Breathe into that space with awareness.
- Dare to Be Present: Like Callas, embrace the silence. Trust that intention and preparation will resonate more powerfully than rushing to fill the void.
🎥 Reflections on Callas’s Legacy
With the release of a new biopic starring Angelina Jolie, Maria Callas is once again inspiring a new generation. While the film has sparked varied opinions, it succeeds in bringing Callas’s artistry back into the spotlight. Her work remains a timeless example of the power of intentional expression—not just for singers, but for anyone seeking to communicate with authenticity and purpose.
Key Takeaway:
Maria Callas’s performance of the Habanera reminds us that intention transforms even the simplest act—like taking a breath—into a tool for clarity, connection, and power. As we step into a new year, let each breath carry your intention—to speak, act, and lead authentically.
In Traviata at Opéra Biarritz, Germont-père and his son stand at a crossroads of intention. The father, steady and resolute, seeks to guide and protect, while the son wrestles with heartbreak and inner conflict. Their opposing intentions collide in a poignant moment of raw emotion and human complexity.
#DevelopingYourAuthenticVoice #VocalHealth #Intention #EmotionalIntelligence #MariaCallas #Leadership #Authenticity #Teaching #NewYear
Engage with Me
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences, ask questions, or let me know what topics you’d like to see explored in future posts.
And if you’d like to dive deeper into these techniques, I explore more practical exercises and insights throughout my book. It’s all about making the process of voice production practical, accessible, and tailored to your unique needs.
🔗 Read more insights here: Developing Your Authentic Voice (DYAV) with Elias
Note: if you’re viewing this on a mobile device and don’t see the ‘Subscribe for Updates’ option, try switching to the web version of the blog. You can do this by scrolling to the bottom of the page and clicking ‘View web version.’ This will allow you to easily subscribe and stay updated with more insights like this.
