Wiener Staatsoper Live: Arias of Bellini, Rossini, Tchaikovsky & Verdi

Experience the power and passion of Dmitri Hvorostovsky's extraordinary vocal prowess with "Wiener Staatsoper Live: Arias of Bellini, Rossini, Tchaikovsky & Verdi," a live recording from the prestigious Wiener Staatsoper. This album, released on September 21, 2018, under the Orfeo label, captures the essence of Hvorostovsky's artistry in a stunning collection of arias that showcase his versatility and mastery of the operatic repertoire.

The album features a diverse selection of arias from some of the most beloved operas, including works by Bellini, Rossini, Tchaikovsky, and Verdi. Hvorostovsky's rich, resonant baritone shines in iconic pieces such as "Ah! per sempre io ti perdei" from Bellini's "I puritani," "All'idea di quel metallo" from Rossini's "Il barbiere di Siviglia," and "Ya vas lyublyu" from Tchaikovsky's "The Queen of Spades." His performances are accompanied by the exceptional Orchester der Wiener Staatsoper, conducted by the renowned Seiji Ozawa.

Highlights of the album include a scene from Verdi’s "La Traviata," featuring Hvorostovsky as Giorgio Germont alongside Marina Rebeka, and a powerful rendition of "Pari siamo!" from Verdi’s "Rigoletto." The album also includes arias from "Don Carlo," "Simon Boccanegra," and "Un ballo in maschera," each demonstrating Hvorostovsky's ability to convey deep emotion and dramatic intensity.

With a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this live recording offers an immersive experience of Hvorostovsky's live performances, capturing the energy and excitement of the Wiener Staatsoper. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, this album is a testament to Hvorostovsky's enduring legacy as one of the greatest baritones of our time.

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.