Russian Sacred Hymns, Folk Songs, and Romances; recordings from 1920-1930

The great Russian basso, Fyodor Chaliapin (Shalyapin) (1873-1938), was a legendary opera singer in his time. Possessing a voice of great expression, he also added naturalistic acting to his roles, transforming the approach prevalent in opera at the time. He was equally famous in Russia and abroad, meeting with enormous success in New York, London, Paris, Milan and throughout the world. He and Rachmaninioff were life-long friends, a relationship that mutually enriched both musicians. Throughout his illustrious career, Chaliapin was equally at home on the operatic stage and as a solo performer in the recital hall. After emigrating from the Soviet Union in 1921, he also sang as a soloist with various Russian church choirs. The present CD contains recordings made in the 1920s and 1930s, in a variety of genres—sacred solos, Russian folk songs, and classical romances.