Various Artists - Arion (CD)

Soprano Natalya Romaniw and pianist Lada Valešova take us on a journey through Slavic song on this sumptuous album. Welsh-born soprano Natalya Romaniw is of Ukrainian descent, roots she explores in this recital, which is dedicated to her Ukrainian grandfather. The generous programme encompasses a wealth of music by Russian and Czech composers. Dvorak's Love Songs, Op.83, are at the heart of the album, and his idiomatic Czech style influenced Janacek, from whom we hear a selection of Moravian folk songs. Novak in turn was fascinated by Moravian folk music and was influenced by Janacek; Novak's gift for melody shines in Romaniw's interpretations of his songs. From Russia, meanwhile, we hear magical, almost operatic music from Rimsky-Korsakov, powerful passion from Tchaikovsky, and some of Rachmaninov's most exquisite songs. Natalya Romaniw is often noted for the Slavic character of her voice, a quality heard to full effect on this recording.

Track List:

Disc: 1

1. Gornimi Tikho Leterla Dusha Nebesami, Op. 27 No. 1
2. Nimfa, Op. 56 No. 1
3. Son V Letnuyu Noch, Op. 56. No. 2
4. Love Songs, Op. 83
5. Nam Zviozdi Krotkie Siali, Op. 60 No. 12
6. Den Li Tsarit, Op. 47 No. 6
7. Otchevo, Op. 6 No. 5
8. Oh Never Sing To Me Again, Op. 4 No. 4
9. The Harvest Of Sorrow, Op. 4 No. 5
10. How Fair This Spot, Op. 21 No. 7
11. Spring Waters, Op. 14 No. 11
12. Arion, Op. 34 No. 5
13. Láska
14. Stálost
15. Rozmarýn
16. Muzikanti
17. The Fairytale Of The Heart, Op. 8