Stas Venglevski, a virtuoso of the bayan (Russian accordion), is a two-time first-prize winner of the Republic of Moldova's national bayan competition.
Historical Context
The album features three classic settings of the sardonic 'flea song' from Goethe's Faust by Berlioz, Beethoven, and Mussorgsky, sung in their original languages.
Performer Biography
Mark S. Doss won First Prize in the Verdi Competition in Busseto, Italy, and received a Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording for his performance on Handel's Semele.
Performer Biography
Pianist Ken Smith has had a 50-year performing career, collaborating with hundreds of singers and appearing in the United States, Europe, Japan, and Central America.
Album & Artwork
The album embodies the spirit of the Bel Canto Foundation, which supported young operatic singers for 43 years, through the talents of Mark S. Doss and Maestro Kenneth Smith.
Performer Biography
Mark S. Doss, a bass-baritone, has performed over 100 roles with more than 60 major opera companies globally, including La Scala and the Vienna State Opera.
Recording & Production
The album was made possible by the Bel Canto Foundation and its patrons, and also supported by the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Fund for Vocal Recordings at Cedille Records.
