I have never heard of Dmitry Bortnyansky . The newsletter from nativedsd with some new release grabbed my attention to to new album from Caro Mitis , russian label with highest recording standards. Then I read a critic by Tom Gibbs from Audiophile Audition Review :
"Dmitry Bortnyansky is almost exclusively known as the father of the Russian Orthodox liturgical choral tradition (for a truly superb cross-section of that work, get the excellent Powers of Heaven SACD on Harmonia Mundi – very highly recommended). His combined output exclusive of his liturgical works totaled more than 200 other compositions, including operas, concertos, sonatas and symphonies. Manuscripts for most of these are lost, and the remaining works in general have been largely forgotten, with only fragments of his five operas and various motets remaining. Bortnyansky showed great promise as a youthful choirboy in the court of Catherine the Great, and the Italian composer Galuppi (also a member of Catherine’s court) begged to be allowed to take him to Venice for further education. The selections on this excellent disc are taken from his output during that period, hence the name, “The Italian Album.” Although all of the selections are performed on period instruments, there’s none of the harshness or “thinness” sometimes associated with historical performances. The vocalists are superb; soprano Galina Knysh, who most often gets the spotlight, has a purity of tone and range that are equally impressive and thrilling to hear – she hits the really extended notes effortlessly. Most of the works here have a real chamber feel to them, but when the combined forces of choirs, orchestra and soloists join together on the finale, it’s both passionate and majestic. As with the Bach disc noted above, every aspect of the sound presentation is superb, and bodes well for Caro Mitis. Very highly recommended."
Tom Gibbs"
What can I say more ? This album contains one of most beautiful Ave Maria , duet soprano - alto with chamber orchestra and choir, you cannot miss it.
. They really have a rich library and it is a shame there is no proper way for us to purchase their content.
