Nicolai Ghiaurov

Nicolai Ghiaurov was a legendary Bulgarian bass whose rich, powerful voice made him one of the most celebrated opera stars of the 20th century. Born in 1929, he rose to fame in the 1950s and became renowned for his commanding performances in heavyweight roles like Verdi’s *Attila*, Mozart’s *Don Giovanni*, and Boris Godunov in Mussorgsky’s opera of the same name. His deep, velvety tone and dramatic intensity made him a favorite at major opera houses, from La Scala to the Vienna State Opera, and he often collaborated with icons like Herbert von Karajan and his wife, soprano Mirella Freni.

Ghiaurov’s career spanned decades, leaving behind a treasure trove of live recordings and studio classics, including standout performances in *Aïda*, *Don Carlos*, and *Eugene Onegin*. Beyond his powerhouse vocals, he was admired for his magnetic stage presence and ability to breathe life into complex characters, whether playing brooding antiheroes or sinister villains like Mephistopheles. Even after his passing in 2004, his legacy lives on through timeless releases and the sheer grandeur he brought to opera’s grandest stages.

Genres

Opera

Classical

Requiem

Latest Release

Mozart: Don Giovanni, K. 527 (Remastered)

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart•

Nicolai Ghiaurov•

Christa Ludwig•

Mirella Freni•

Nicolai Gedda•

New Philharmonia Orchestra•

Otto Klemperer

Album - 59 Tracks - Released November 1, 2023