Modest Mussorgsky’s operatic output is dominated by the epic Boris Godunov and Khovanshchina, but of his notable unfinished works Sorochintsï Fair is the most prominent example. Based on a story by Gogol, this is a comic opera in which amorous encounters intermingle with a devil’s curse. This chamber orchestra version by Fabrice Bollon uses only original music by Mussorgsky unlike other completions. Potentially a compelling and original drama, Salammbô was Mussorgsky’s first attempt at an opera, praised by Rimsky-Korsakov for the ‘beauty of its themes and ideas’.

Mussorgsky’s Sorochintsï Fair has maintained its obscurity in comparison to the likes of Boris Godunov, so this new version arranged by composer and conductor Fabrice Bollon is a welcome addition to the Mussorgsky catalogue. Its chamber opera character is ideal for the kind of irony and caricature in Gogol’s original story. Performed by an ensemble of world-class singers and musicians and paired here with a suite from Mussorgsky’s other incomplete and equally neglected opera Salammbô, this is something to which this composer’s fans will naturally gravitate, as well as those collectors who are always keen to hear Fabrice Bollon’s newest output.

Fabrice Bollon’s albums for Naxos include an acclaimed chamber ensemble version of Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen (866052627) ‘[which] blends the colours of his ensemble so skilfully that Janáček’s writing loses none of its warmth or earthiness… [and is] very attractive on its own terms and it certainly drew me in’ (Gramophone). ‘Bollon’s fine, haunting musical arrangement and the interpretation create a directly magical spell with a great sensuality’ (Pizzicato).

Cast (Sorochintsï Fair):
- Cherevik: Tair Tazhi (bass)
- Hivria: Greta Bagiyan (mezzo-soprano)
- Parasja: Carina Schmieger (soprano)
- Kum: Hans Gröning (bass-baritone)
- Grizko: Nutthaporn Thammathi (tenor)
- Afanasii Ivanovich: Junbum Lee (tenor)
- The Gypsy / Chernobog: Jin Seok Lee (bass)
- Fiend of Cherevik: Petar Naydenov (bass)