Dvorak: Rusalka – Jaroslav Krombholc

The first complete Czech studio recording of Rusalka (1952), presented here in its original remastered mono version, returns with a sensitive revival of its authentic sound, reaffirming its special place in the history of Czech operatic discography.

Soprano Ludmila Červinková shines in the title role in an interpretation combining lyrical tenderness with dramatic urgency, an achievement that remains to this day among the pinnacles of Czech operatic artistry. Alongside her are legends of the golden generation of the Opera of the Prague National Theatre – Beno Blachut bringing ardent passion to the part of the Prince, Eduard Haken in a deeply moving portrayal of the Water Goblin, Marie Podvalová as the majestic Foreign Princess, and Marta Krásová evocatively portraying the Witch.

Jaroslav Krombholc leads the Prague National Theatre Orchestra with exceptional sensitivity to Antonín Dvořák’s melodicism, colour, and the dramatic sweep of the work, creating an interpretation that unites fairytale poetry with powerful dramatic intensity. With its famous aria “Song to the Moon”, Rusalka is today one of the most frequently performed Czech operas around the world, and this historical recording remains a treasure, documenting Czech operatic artistry of the 20th century.