Modest Mussorgsky: Boris Godounov – Vladimir Fedoseyev (3CD, Philips Classics)

UPC: 028941228123 

MPN: 412 281-2 PH3 

Brand Name: Philips Classics (PolyGram International B.V.)

Overview

This 3-CD Philips Classics release presents Modest Mussorgsky’s monumental opera Boris Godounov in its definitive 1872 version, performed by some of the greatest voices of the Soviet era and conducted by Vladimir Fedoseyev. Recorded between 1978 and 1983 in the USSR, this authentic interpretation captures the grandeur, pathos, and psychological depth of Mussorgsky’s masterpiece—an opera that explores the tormented reign and conscience of Tsar Boris Godunov.

Issued under license from Mezhdunarodnaya Kniga, Moscow, this original Soviet recording remains one of the most historically important performances of Boris Godounov available on CD.

Product Features

• Format: 3 Compact Discs (Stereo, ADD)
• Recording Label: Philips Classics
• Recording Years: 1978–1983
• Recording Location: USSR
• Total Duration: 198 minutes, 7 seconds
• Catalogue Number: 412 281-2 PH3
• Audio Quality: Analog-Digital Transfer (ADD Stereo)
• Country of Manufacture: West Germany
• Packaging: 3CD box with multilingual libretto (Russian, English, French, German)
• Series: From the USSR Original Recording

Cast and Performers

• Boris Godounov: Alexander Vedernikov
• Feodor: Glafira Koroleva
• Xenia: Elena Shkolnikova
• Nurse: Nina Grigorieva
• Shuisky: Andrei Sokolov
• Shchelkalov: Alexander Voroshilo
• Pimen: Vladimir Matorin
• Grigory/Dimitri: Vladislav Piavko
• Marina Mnishek: Irina Arkhipova
• Rangoni: Yuri Masurok
• Varlaam: Artur Eisen
• Missail: Anatoli Mishutin
• Hostess: Ludmila Simonova
• Simpleton: Janis Sporgis
• Nikitich: Vladimir Filippov
• Mitiukha: Nikolai Nizinenko
• Boyar Khrushchov Lavitsky: Yuri Elnikov
• Chernikovsky: Vladimir Silaev

USSR TV and Radio Large Symphony Orchestra USSR TV and Radio Large Chorus “Spring” Studio Children’s Chorus Conductor: Vladimir Fedoseyev Chorus Director: Klavdi Ptitsa Children’s Choir Director: Alexander Ponomarev

Interesting Facts

• Definitive Version: This recording follows Mussorgsky’s 1872 revision, the composer’s final version, noted for its psychological realism and bold orchestration.
• Soviet Sound Authenticity: Recorded in the USSR with the USSR TV and Radio Symphony Orchestra, this production embodies the power and intensity of the Russian operatic tradition.
• Iconic Voices: Legendary Russian mezzo-soprano Irina Arkhipova delivers a commanding portrayal of Marina Mnishek, while Vedernikov and Piavko bring dramatic conviction to their roles.
• Cultural Milestone: One of the few large-scale Soviet opera recordings issued internationally by Philips under special license from Mezhdunarodnaya Kniga.
• Classic Presentation: Includes photography by V. Solowjow and art design by Phonogram International B.V., printed and made in West Germany by PolyGram, Hanover.

Publishers

Published by: Philips Classics / Phonogram International B.V. Manufactured by: PolyGram, Hanover, West Germany Licensed from: V/O Mezhdunarodnaya Kniga, Moscow, USSR Printed in: West Germany / Imprimé en Allemagne

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