Bel Canto Arias

Dive into the world of bel canto opera with Dmitri Hvorostovsky's captivating album, "Bel Canto Arias," released in 1994 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label. This exquisite collection showcases the Russian baritone's exceptional vocal prowess and dramatic depth, featuring a selection of beloved arias from iconic operas.

Spanning a diverse range of compositions, the album includes renowned works such as "Largo al factotum" from Rossini's "Il barbiere di Siviglia," "Si, vincemmo" from Bellini's "Il pirata," and "Cruda, funesta smania" from Donizetti's "Lucia di Lammermoor." Each track is a testament to Hvorostovsky's ability to convey the nuances of each character, transporting the audience into the heart of each opera.

Accompanied by the Philharmonia Orchestra under the direction of Ion Marin, the album offers a rich and immersive listening experience. With a duration of just over 51 minutes, "Bel Canto Arias" is a compact yet powerful showcase of Hvorostovsky's artistry, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or new to the genre, this album promises to delight and inspire with its stunning performances and timeless repertoire.

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.