On June 17, 1989, Dmitri Hvorostovsky delivered a breathtaking performance of Yeletsky’s aria from Tchaikovsky’s The Queen of Spades during the Concert of the Stars of the World (CSOTW). At just 27, his interpretation of Yeletsky, a character filled with love and desperation, demonstrated his remarkable vocal technique and emotional depth.

The performance marked a defining moment in his career, showcasing his ability to convey complex emotions through his rich baritone. This aria remains one of the early milestones in Hvorostovsky’s rise to international fame in the opera world.

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Dmitri Hvorostovsky Performs Yeletsky’s Aria from The Queen of Spades (CSOTW, June 17, 1989)

On June 17, 1989, Dmitri Hvorostovsky captivated the audience with a memorable performance of Yeletsky’s aria from Tchaikovsky’s The Queen of Spades at the prestigious Concert of the Stars of the World (CSOTW). At just 27 years old, Hvorostovsky’s rendition of the aria showcased his extraordinary vocal technique, emotional depth, and interpretive skill, qualities that would define his career.

Yeletsky, the character he portrayed, is a young officer in love with the heroine, Lisa. In the aria, he expresses his deep feelings for her, tinged with both hope and desperation, as he longs for her love. Hvorostovsky’s rich baritone brought a nuanced intensity to the role, effortlessly blending passion and vulnerability.

This performance was one of the early milestones in his rapidly rising career. His vocal power, combined with an innate ability to convey deep emotional resonance, marked him as one of the leading baritones of his generation. His interpretation of this complex character made a lasting impression on both critics and audiences alike.

Hvorostovsky’s performance at the CSOTW not only solidified his reputation as an exceptional talent in the opera world but also helped establish his international fame. Throughout his career, he would continue to be celebrated for his mastery of both the vocal and dramatic aspects of opera, and his portrayal of Yeletsky remains a pivotal moment in his legacy as one of opera’s great baritones.