Rimsky-Korsakov, The Golden Cockerel, Igor Markevitch

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's final opera, "The Golden Cockerel," conducted by the esteemed Igor Markevitch. This live recording, released on January 1, 2009, by mpLive, offers a captivating journey through the operatic masterpiece, sung in an English translation by Edward Agate. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 47 minutes, featuring 20 tracks that bring to life the satirical tale based on Alexander Pushkin's story, with a libretto by Vladimir Belsky.

"The Golden Cockerel" is a three-act opera with a prologue and epilogue, showcasing Rimsky-Korsakov's brilliant orchestration and Markevitch's skillful conducting. The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House and The Royal Opera Chorus deliver a powerful performance, accompanied by notable vocalists Howell Glynne and Mattiwilda Dobbs. The opera's unique blend of humor, reflection, and romance is vividly captured in this live recording, providing a comprehensive experience of Rimsky-Korsakov's last complete opera.

Originally performed in 1909, "The Golden Cockerel" is a satirical commentary on the reign of Tsar Nicholas II, written during a tumultuous period in Russian history. The opera's journey to the stage was fraught with challenges, including censorship issues, making its eventual performance a significant event in the world of classical music. This recording allows you to witness the opera's rich history and artistic brilliance, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection.