Their performance captivated the audience with their exceptional vocal chemistry—Sumi Jo’s radiant soprano and Hvorostovsky’s deep, resonant baritone blending seamlessly to portray the playful yet poignant exchange between Hanna Glawari and Danilo. Set against the stunning backdrop of St. Petersburg’s concert hall, this performance became a timeless masterpiece of emotion and vocal artistry.

Sumi Jo & Dmitri Hvorostovsky: A Captivating Performance of The Merry Widow Duet in St. Petersburg (2008)

In November 2008, the concert hall in St. Petersburg was graced by an unforgettable collaboration between two of the greatest operatic talents of the time: soprano Sumi Jo and baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky. Their duet from Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow became a highlight of the evening, leaving the audience spellbound with their incredible chemistry, vocal mastery, and dramatic presence.

The Merry Widow, a beloved operetta, is known for its lush melodies and charming wit. The duet between the characters of Hanna Glawari and Danilo, who are caught in a playful yet poignant exchange of love and longing, provides the perfect opportunity for two outstanding singers to showcase their vocal prowess and create a captivating onstage dynamic. Sumi Jo, with her sparkling soprano, and Dmitri Hvorostovsky, with his rich, resonant baritone, brought the characters to life in a way that few could ever replicate.

From the very first note, Sumi Jo’s voice shimmered with brilliance, effortlessly navigating the soaring lines of Hanna’s part. Her impeccable technique and radiant tone made her portrayal of the vivacious widow both alluring and heartfelt. Meanwhile, Hvorostovsky’s velvety baritone created the perfect foil to Jo’s soprano, his voice full of warmth and depth as he embodied the complex emotions of Danilo. Together, they transformed the duet into an exploration of desire, hesitation, and unresolved feelings.

What truly made this performance stand out was the palpable chemistry between the two singers. The playful banter between Hanna and Danilo was portrayed with a mix of lighthearted charm and deeper emotional undercurrents, which kept the audience engaged throughout. Their mutual respect and understanding of each other’s voices allowed for a seamless blending of sound, creating a moment of pure magic on stage.

The St. Petersburg concert, set in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, offered the ideal backdrop for this stellar performance. The acoustics of the venue, combined with the presence of two world-class artists, enhanced the beauty of the music and amplified the emotional impact of the duet.

This collaboration between Sumi Jo and Dmitri Hvorostovsky in 2008 remains a shining example of operatic excellence. Their performance of The Merry Widow duet is a testament to their artistry, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.