Ewa Maria Podleś was a renowned Polish coloratura contralto singer celebrated for her remarkable vocal agility and an extraordinary range spanning over three octaves. Born on April 26, 1952, Podleś captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful and versatile voice, excelling in roles that demanded both technical prowess and emotional depth. She was particularly noted for her performances in Rossini operas, such as Rosina in "Il barbiere di Siviglia" and the title roles in "La Cenerentola" and "Tancredi." Her ability to tackle roles originally written for castratos, like Rinaldo and Giulio Cesare in Handel's operas, further showcased her unique talent. Podleś's international career included performances on prestigious stages and a rich discography, leaving a lasting impact on the opera world.