Experience the grandeur of Russian opera with Rimsky-Korsakov’s masterpiece, *The Legend of the Invisible City of Kitezh and the Maiden Fevroniya*. This compelling four-act opera, completed in 1905, is based on a rich blend of Russian legends—namely, the story of Saint Fevroniya of Murom and the myth of Kitezh, a city that became invisible when attacked by Tatars. The opera’s premiere took place at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg on February 7, 1907, marking the last performance during Rimsky-Korsakov’s lifetime.
This exceptional recording is issued by Philips (catalog number 462 225-2) on a 3x Audio CD set, released in Germany in 1999. It features a distinguished cast and orchestra, conducted by Valery Gergiev with the Kirov Orchestra and Chorus. The performance includes a stellar lineup of vocalists such as Galina Gorchakova as Fevroniya, Tatiana Kravtsova as Sirin, Nikolai Gassiev as Bear Leader, Vladimir Galouzine as Grishka Kutyerma, and Yuri Marusin as Prince Vsevolod. The ensemble also features prominent bass vocalists Bulat Minjilkiev, Vladimir Ognovenko, and others, alongside the Kirov Chorus, bringing this legendary work vividly to life.
The tracklist encompasses a wide array of scenes and musical highlights, from the stirring "Introduction 'In praise of the wilderness'" in Act 1 to the dramatic scenes near Kerzhenets in Act 3, and the poignant moments in Act 4. Notable sections include the interludes "The Battle near Kerzhenets" and the mystical "Tsarstvo svetozarnoe," showcasing Rimsky-Korsakov’s masterful orchestration and melodic richness. The recording captures the full scope of the opera’s emotional depth and Russian national character.
This release has been praised for its authentic and powerful interpretation, with reviews highlighting its fidelity to the original score and the exceptional performances of the cast. It is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts of classical and operatic music, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience of one of Rimsky-Korsakov’s most celebrated works.