Glinka: Ruslan and Lyudmila

Album Description

Experience the enchanting world of Mikhail Glinka's "Ruslan and Lyudmila," a seminal work in the Russian operatic canon, now available in a captivating album released by JSC "Firma Melodiya." This three-hour masterpiece, recorded in 2015, offers a comprehensive journey through Glinka's operatic genius, showcasing his unique blend of Russian folk elements and Western musical traditions.

"Ruslan and Lyudmila" is an opera in five acts, composed between 1837 and 1842, with a libretto based on Alexander Pushkin's narrative poem of the same name. The album features a stellar cast, including renowned singers and orchestras, bringing to life the dramatic tale of love, magic, and adventure. From the stirring overture to the triumphant finale, each track is a testament to Glinka's innovative compositional style and his enduring influence on Russian music.

The opera tells the story of Ruslan, a knight who embarks on a quest to rescue his beloved Lyudmila from the clutches of the evil sorcerer Chernomor. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, including the wise Finn, the cunning Farlaf, and the enchanting Gorislava. The album's tracklist includes a rich tapestry of arias, duets, choruses, and dances, each contributing to the opera's vivid and immersive narrative.

Highlights of the album include Lyudmila's Cavatina, Ruslan's Aria, and the dramatic Finale, where Ruslan ultimately breaks Chernomor's spell and restores Lyudmila to consciousness. The album also features the iconic "Overture to Ruslan and Lyudmila," a piece that has become one of Glinka's most famous compositions and a staple in the orchestral repertoire.

Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Immerse yourself in the world of "Ruslan and Lyudmila" and discover the timeless beauty of Mikhail Glinka's music.

May 28, 2015

2021 JSC "Firma Melodiya"

About Mikhail Glinka

Mikhail Glinka, often hailed as the father of Russian classical music, was the first Russian composer to achieve widespread recognition both at home and internationally. Born in rural Russia in 1804, Glinka's musical journey began at the age of 10 when he started learning the piano and violin. His compositions, which include the iconic operas "A Life for the Tsar" and "Ruslan and Lyudmila," blend Italian and French operatic forms with Russian folk music and historical themes, creating a distinctive and influential style. Glinka's work laid the foundation for the nationalist school of Russian music and inspired future composers such as Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, and Rimsky-Korsakov. His legacy endures as a pivotal figure in the development of Russian musical identity, making him a must-explore figure for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of classical music.