Notes & Reviews:
Ivan Kusnjer has rightly been awarded the title of "King of Czech Singers" by the music critics. The fruits of his single-minded work are worthy of admiration: successes at international voice competitions, guest appearances on opera stages worldwide (Berliner Staatsoper, Wiener Staatsoper, Teatro la Fenice, La Scala, Teatro Real, Théâtre Châtelet, Opéra-Bastille, etc.) and in prestigious concert halls (Albert Hall, Barbican, Carnegie Hall, Suntory Hall), collaboration with renowned conductors (Mackerras, Albrecht, Harnoncourt, Gardiner, Peek, Kout, Belohlávek, etc.), the remarkable range of operatic roles he has portrayed (primarily for the National Theatre in Prague), songs and cantatas he has performed, as well as numerous accolades he has received (the 2001 Gustav Mahler European Prize, three Thalia Awards)... A special chapter is Ivan Kusnjer's keen interest in lesser-known Czech operas. Works linked with the time of their origin only rarely pass the test of time. Yet the carefully prepared selection on this album indicates just how much interesting music remains in the archives, and the recording is hence a must for all opera lovers. The CD comprises previously unreleased arias, as masterfully performed by Ivan Kusnjer.
American Record Guide, July / August 2012
This release is a compilation from Supraphon recordings, with numerous orchestras, maestros, and supporting singers. Mr Kusjner (l951- ) has been a leading baritone at the Prague National Theatre and State Opera. He has a powerful, unmistakably Slavic sound that is very expressive. The fact that he sounds rather thin at the top doesn't bother me, and he's on good behavior otherwise - no bothersome Slavic wobble. Given the beauty and power of these novelties, I wish Supraphon had supplied texts and translations and more notes. This set is worth acquiring even if you don't understand Czech.
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