Details: Ondine's third release with star baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky is devoted to Russian sacred works and folk songs. The prestigious Russian Grand Choir 'Masters of Choral Singing', conducted by Lev Kontorovich accompanies Mr. Hvorostovsky. The title song of the album Georgy Sviridov's (1915-1998) Bells of Dawn, is an atmospheric song creating an almost otherworldly and remote soundscape. Dmitri Hvorostovsky was born and studied in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia. Since his Western operatic debut at the Nice Opera in Tchaikovsky's Pique Dame, he has been invited for regular engagements at major opera houses and festivals internationally, and has performed as a celebrated recitalist in every corner of the globe, appearing in concert with the world's top orchestras and conductors. The Grand Choir was established in 1928. The name, "Masters of Choral Singing," defines the high standards of vocal performance and musical expertise required for chorus membership. Every singer must be able to perform both as soloist and as an integrated chorus member. It's immense repertoire, including numerous premieres (over 5,000 works performed since it's founding) includes operas, oratorios, folk songs, church music, and much else. It's recordings have earned gold medal recognition, both in Russia and internationally.