Immerse yourself in the powerful and dramatic world of Modest Mussorgsky's "Boris Godunov" with this captivating 1998 release from Chandos. This orchestral masterpiece, lasting just over an hour and fourteen minutes, is a highlight reel of Mussorgsky's iconic opera, offering a gripping journey through the tumultuous reign of Tsar Boris Godunov.
The album features a stellar cast of vocalists and the orchestra, bringing to life the intricate and emotionally charged scenes from the opera. From the triumphant coronation scene to the haunting death scene, each track is a testament to Mussorgsky's genius and his ability to convey deep psychological and political themes through music.
Highlights include the stirring "Long life to our Tsar Boris Feodorovich!" where the chorus and Shuisky celebrate the new tsar, and the introspective "My soul is sad" sung by Boris, revealing his inner turmoil. The album also showcases the rich character development through solos such as Varlaam's Song and the poignant "Farewell, my son" duet between Boris and Feodor.
This recording is a must for fans of classical music and opera, providing a concise yet comprehensive overview of one of Mussorgsky's most significant works. The Chandos label ensures high-quality sound, making this a valuable addition to any classical music collection.
1998 Chandos Records1998 Chandos Records
Tracks
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Coronation Scene: Long life to our Tsar Boris Feodorovich! (Shuisky, Boyar, Chorus)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Stuart Kale, Brian Cookson, Opera North Chorus
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Coronation Scene: My soul is sad (Boris, Chorus)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson, Opera North Chorus
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Varlaam's Song: By the walls of Kazan the mighty fortress (Varlaam)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Clive Bayley
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Apartments Scene: Ah, my dear betrothed (Boris, Xenia, Feodor, Nurse)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson, Joan Rodgers, Susan Parry, Yvonne Howard
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Apartments Scene: I stand supreme in power (Boris)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Apartments Scene: What is it? (Boris, Boyar, Shuisky, Feodor)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson, Stuart Kale, Brian Cookson, Susan Parry
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Apartments Scene: Ugh! Give me air! (Boris)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson
Boris Godunov (Highlights), St. Basil Scene: What, has the service finished? (Mitiukha, Simpleton, Chorus)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Edward Thornton, Mark Curtis, Opera North Chorus
Boris Godunov (Highlights), St. Basil Scene: Merciful, gracious Tsar (Simpleton, Boris, Shuisky, Chorus)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson, Stuart Kale, Mark Curtis, Opera North Chorus
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Death Scene: Sad, Shuisky is not with us (Boyar, Shuisky, Shchelkalov)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, Stuart Kale, Brian Cookson, Stephen Dawson
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Death Scene: A humble hermit (Pimen, Boris)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson, Matthew Best
Boris Godunov (Highlights), Death Scene: Farewell, my son (Boris, Feodor, Chorus)Modest Mussorgsky, Paul Daniel, English Northern Philharmonia, John Tomlinson, Susan Parry, Choristers of Leeds Parish Church