The Secret and Viola

Dive into the rich tapestry of Czech opera with Bedřich Smetana's "The Secret and Viola," a captivating collection of operatic works that showcase the composer's enduring genius. This album, released on August 2, 2024, by SUPRAPHON a.s., offers a comprehensive journey through Smetana's operatic repertoire, featuring the complete opera "The Secret" and the fragment "Viola."

"The Secret" is a comic opera in three acts, filled with lively arias and ensemble pieces that bring to life a tale of love, deception, and ultimately, reconciliation. The opera is divided into numerous scenes, each brimming with character and drama. From the overture that sets the stage to the final act's resolution, every moment is crafted with Smetana's signature melodic brilliance and harmonic richness.

The fragment "Viola" adds another layer of intrigue, inspired by Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night." This incomplete opera, though unfinished, offers a glimpse into Smetana's creative process and his ability to adapt literary works into musical masterpieces. The inclusion of "Viola" alongside "The Secret" provides a unique opportunity to appreciate Smetana's versatility and depth as a composer.

Performed by the Prague National Theatre Orchestra under the baton of Zdeněk Košler, this recording is a testament to the enduring legacy of Smetana's music. The album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Věra Soukupová, Karel Průša, Václav Zítek, and others, who bring the characters to life with their powerful and nuanced performances.

With a duration of over two hours, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts and opera lovers alike. Whether you are familiar with Smetana's works or discovering them for the first time, "The Secret and Viola" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. Immerse yourself in the world of Bedřich Smetana and experience the timeless beauty of his operatic compositions.