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 Delos in 2016, showcases the incomparable Siberian baritone's extraordinary range and depth, as he navigates through a carefully curated selection of arias and scenes from some of Russia's most beloved operatic masterpieces. Accompanied by the Russian State Symphony Orchestra and the Helikon Opera Chorus, under the skilled direction of Constantine Orbelian, Hvorostovsky delivers a performance that is as powerful as it is nuanced.

The album opens with a vibrant scene from Prokofiev's "War and Peace," setting the stage for a journey through the complexities of human experience. Hvorostovsky is joined by a stellar cast of singers, including the rising star soprano Asmik Grigorian, as they bring to life the timeless themes of love, loss, and longing that permeate these works. From the haunting beauty of Tchaikovsky's "Iolanta" to the dramatic intensity of Rubinstein's "The Demon," each track is a testament to the enduring power of these operatic gems.

With a duration of just over 53 minutes, "War, Peace, Love & Sorrow" is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of the Russian operatic canon. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a compelling introduction to the rich and varied world of Russian opera, as seen through the eyes of one of its most celebrated interpreters.

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.