War, Peace, Love & Sorrow

Dive into the rich tapestry of Russian opera with Dmitri Hvorostovsky's captivating album, "War, Peace, Love & Sorrow." This exquisite collection, released on August 12, 2016, under the Delos label, showcases the incomparable Siberian baritone's powerful voice and his deep connection to his homeland's operatic masterpieces. The album spans a mere 53 minutes but is packed with seven stunning tracks, each a testament to Hvorostovsky's artistry and the enduring beauty of Russian classical music.

The album opens with a vibrant scene from Prokofiev's "War and Peace," setting the stage for a journey through some of the most beloved and dramatic arias and scenes from Russian opera. Hvorostovsky is joined by a stellar cast of singers, including Asmik Grigorian, Irina Shishkova, Mikhail Guzhov, Igor Morozov, and Vadim Volkov, as well as the State Academic Symphony Orchestra of Russia and the Helikon Opera Chorus, all conducted by the esteemed Constantine Orbelian.

From the radiant "The Radiance of the Sky in Spring" from Prokofiev's "War and Peace" to the haunting "Who Can Compare With My Mathilde?" from Tchaikovsky's "Iolanta," each track is a masterclass in vocal prowess and dramatic storytelling. Hvorostovsky's rendition of "One Day at Versailles, at the Jeu de la Reine" and "If Cute Girls" from Tchaikovsky's "The Queen of Spades" are particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to convey a range of emotions with nuance and depth.

This album is a treasure trove for fans of opera and classical music, offering a rare opportunity to experience some of the finest Russian operatic works performed by one of the world's most celebrated baritones. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Dmitri Hvorostovsky or new to the world of opera, "War, Peace, Love & Sorrow" is an album that will leave a lasting impression.

Dmitri Hvorostovsky, the beloved Russian operatic baritone, was born on 16 October 1962 in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia. His journey to operatic stardom began after studying with Yekaterina Yofel in his hometown, leading to his triumphant victory at the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competition in 1989. Before his operatic success, Hvorostovsky even sang in a heavy metal band, showcasing his versatile vocal range. Known for his powerful and emotive performances, Hvorostovsky's repertoire spanned a wide array of classical and operatic genres. Despite battling a brain tumour, he continued to captivate audiences with his incredible talent until his passing on 22 November 2017, at the age of 55. His legacy as a husband, father, son, and friend endures, as does his remarkable contribution to the world of opera.