Customer Reviews

Kalinka: Russian Folk Songs

5 star:		(8)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

With his rich and powerful dark honey voice, Dmitri Hvorostovsky is one of the greatest operatic baritones alive, and as an interpreter of Russian music, no singer can top him; his exquisite renditions of folk melodies, as well as the rapturous songs of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff on his other recordings are sublime.
Here he is backed not by an orchestra, but by St. Petersburg Chamber Choir, and together they present a superb collection of traditional melodies.

Unfortunately for those of us who are big Dmitri fans, he only sings on 10 of the 18 tracks, and though the chorus is excellent, his magnificent voice would have made these songs even better; the "chorus only" tracks are 4-5, 8-10, 14, and 16-17.
The popular title track, "Kalinka", has probably been included in practically every film with a Russian theme I have ever seen and is instantly recognizable, and some of the others are rare gems, but all of them will be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates Russian music.

My absolute favorite is the final "Vihaztu adin ya na darogu" ("I set off alone down the road"), which with its beautiful melody and soulful singing is glorious. Dmitri recorded this song for his first CD of folk songs in 1991, with the Ossipov Russian Folk Orchestra, with balalaikas instead of a chorus to back him; both versions are wonderful, but with this one having the edge, as I think he sings it on this recording with more emotion.
Total running time is 56'41.

Dmitri Hvorostovsky has outdone himself, which means his admirers are in for a treat. Maturity only adds depth to his interpretations of Russian folk songs, now on a larger scale than on the earlier CD 'Dark Eyes'. His musicianship is such that he blends in perfectly with the superb St. Petersburg Chamber Choir whenever this is called for. Marvelous stuff here - highly recommended.

Listening to these eighteen Russian folk songs, artistically arranged and vocalized, one feels that the musical border between folksong and opera has somehow been melted away, and what are heard are the best aspects of both. There is something very special in Russian folk music. Dmitri Hvorostovsky and St Petersburg Chamber Choir have grasped the spirit of it with their heartbreaking vocal force. Whether it is the melancholy melodies; the somber harmonies; or the primordial elements, they pierce directly through your heart and get to your soul... Simply wonderful!

This CD shows Dmitri Hvorostovsky's extraordinary wide range of singing abilities. Although it is Russian folk songs, the CD content is more sophisticated than what might be termed "rough country folk dances". Much of it is very melodic going from playful pieces to more somber ones. The St. Petersburg Chamber Choir adds much to the enjoyment of the listener.

I thoroughly enjoyed this CD. The voices blend in a rich tapestry of soul.

The passion and the intricate balance of the Russians is beautifully presented.

I heard the CD Kalinka. I've never stopped admiring this wonderful Russian bsritone. I went to his concerto here in Mexico, several months ago. I was in Heaven

The songs are chosen with care and love, and it reminds me always of my so wonderful stay in Russia (3 years). This really is from "Russia with love". The thrilling voice of Hvorostovsky gives me the chills and makes me dream. Thanks for a wonderful and delightful record.

This Cd is not the "academic" version of the Red Army, pleasant as well. This is fresh, bucolic and belongs to the people that are in the enourmous fields of corn in Russia and Ukraine. It is naive, with the beauty of naivite.

Hvorostovky is versatile and in the songs que needs to be sweet, plassionate or melancholic he achieves it masterly!!!!!

Eugenia LizaldeBest of the Red Army Choir

This is absolutely gorgeous music. I can't think of any other performer or chorus that evokes the Russian soul or the beauty of Russian folk music. Listen to 'Kalinka' and if it doesn't stir you or make you think of St.Petersburg 'white nights' or a dacha in the summer sun, then maybe this isn't for you.

Hvorostovsky is to baritones what Villazon is to tenors - essential, emotive and thrilling. He brings these folk songs to life, turning them into anthems, larger than life all the while remaining personal and sensual. And with Nikolai Korniev conducting and the St. Petersburg Chamber Choir providing the choral resonance this album floats through you like a timeless dream.

My personal, personal favourites include the aforementioned 'Kalinka' as well as 'Shto zatumanilas', 'Ivushka' and 'Kak meneya mladu'.

I'm no music critic, I have no notes or criticism concerning technique and so forth but I do believe in the power of a voice to bring feeling and pulse. I love this album because of the strength of the performances, the beauty and the wonder. They say Vladmir Nabokov made love to the English language when he wrote Lolita. I would say the same here with Hvorostovsky and his approach to folk music. If you're a fan of world music, specifically traditional, this is an opportunity to indulge in Slavic bliss.

Again I emphasize the strong and very good voice of Dmitri and his perfect interpretations

Worth congratulating Philips that here (as in several more recent releases) "Russian Text" really means that, in cyrillic not transliteration. Timing 56'40.

The CD was delivered in a very timely fashion. Thanks so much as it was a New Year's gift.