From works with strong Russian influences such as Borodin’s “No sleep, no rest” to tragic arias by Verdi and Bizet, Hvorostovsky demonstrated subtle transformations in each role. Each song was a story of love, suffering, joy and romance, taking the listener through each emotional range. With a perfect combination of technique and emotion, Hvorostovsky’s concert was an unforgettable musical experience full of ups and downs.
Dmitri Hvorostovsky at the Proms 2006: A Night Full of Emotion and Delicacy
Dmitri Hvorostovsky, the great Russian baritone, has always been one of the brightest stars on the international opera stage. At the Proms 2006, he demonstrated his extraordinary talent through a rich program, featuring timeless works by many famous composers. With a powerful and emotional voice, Hvorostovsky not only demonstrated his virtuoso technique but also deeply portrayed the moods and stories in each song.
The program began with “No sleep, no rest” from Borodin’s Prince Igor, a work imbued with Russian culture, where Hvorostovsky expressed the tension and determination in each verse. With each note, he painted a haunting picture, making the listener feel the pain and suffering of the character.
Hvorostovsky then moved on to “Gran dio…Oh de’ verd’anni miei” from Verdi’s Ernani. This is a tragic aria, where his baritone ranged from supplication to grief, clearly portraying the character’s intense emotions. The emotional transformation in this song is not easy, but Hvorostovsky performed it perfectly, taking the audience into Verdi’s tragic world.
Next was Epithalamium from A. Rubinstein’s Nero, a solemn and ceremonial piece. Hvorostovsky’s voice became warm, full of elegance, bringing a mysterious and romantic atmosphere, making the listener feel the beauty of ancient Russian culture.
Hvorostovsky’s indispensable performance was “Votre toast, je peux vous le rendre” from Bizet’s Carmen. This song, with its cheerful and spirited atmosphere, was a highlight of the program, bringing lightness and dynamism. Hvorostovsky expressed the mischievousness of the character, with his hearty singing, making the audience unable to help but applaud.
At the end of the program, Hvorostovsky closed the concert night with “Moscow Nights” by V. Soloviev-Sedoy, a song with a strong Russian folk melody, full of romance and dreaminess. Hvorostovsky’s warm voice seemed to bring the audience back to the peaceful summer nights of Moscow, evoking beautiful memories.
Dmitri Hvorostovsky’s Proms 2006 was not just a concert, but a journey through the range of emotions, from sadness to joy, from romance to strength. With his emotional voice and deep understanding of the works, Hvorostovsky made the audience unable to forget the wonderful moments of this night.