Rimsky-Korsakov: Snegurotchka (The Snow Maiden)

[Collrec]

BelAir Classics has just released the world premiere video recording of Rimsky-Korsakov's Snow Maiden featuring an all Russian cast with the Chorus and Orchestra of the Paris National Opera, Music Director Philippe Jordan and conducted by Mikhail Tatarnikov. It is a magnificent and very emotional production which brought tears to my eyes during the opera's 4th act finale when the Snow Maiden melts away. And what a performance by the very pretty Soprano, Aida Garifullina in the title role. I had never heard of her before this recording. Does any UC member know about her?

The opera is in a Prologue and 4 Acts and is about 3 hours and 15 minutes long. It is available in 2 versions, BAC 186 (2 DVD Set) and BAC 486 (1 Blu-ray disc).

The only negative thing about the performance was the omission of the famous "Dance of the Tumblers" from Act 3 which would have added about 10 more minutes to the recording. Why was it cut? If anyone out there knows, please post it.

[Alan Howe]

Here's the release in question:
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8906319--rimsky-korsakov-the-snow-maiden (Blu-ray)
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8906318--rimsky-korsakov-the-snow-maiden (DVD)

...and the magnificent Aida Garifullina:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VCustckPoY
Surely one of today's loveliest voices.