Dmitri Hvorostovsky’s rendition of Prince Yeletsky’s aria, “Ja vas lyublyu” (“I love you”), from Tchaikovsky’s The Queen of Spades, is a poignant and powerful performance that showcases his exceptional vocal artistry. In this aria, Yeletsky confesses his deep love to Lisa, expressing his unwavering devotion and the profound impact she has had on his life.
Hvorostovsky’s interpretation of this aria is celebrated for its emotional depth and technical precision. His rich baritone voice conveys the sincerity and intensity of Yeletsky’s feelings, capturing the character’s vulnerability and passion. The performance is a testament to Hvorostovsky’s ability to bring complex characters to life through his vocal expression.
This aria is featured in Tchaikovsky’s opera The Queen of Spades, which premiered in 1890. The opera is based on Alexander Pushkin’s short story of the same name and delves into themes of obsession, fate, and the supernatural. Yeletsky’s aria occurs in Act 2, where he reveals his love for Lisa, setting the stage for the tragic events that follow.
For those interested in experiencing this remarkable performance, a recording of Hvorostovsky’s rendition is available on YouTube: