Earlier this year, Dux offered us the video recording of Manru, Paderewski’s only opera, by the distinguished Polish pianist and composer who, in his spare time, was his country’s prime minister. We told you how highly we thought of this sober and intelligent production, from which we now have only the soundtrack. Let us once again underline the intrinsic musical qualities of this version, which justify a separate release: at the helm of an orchestra rich in color, the effective conducting of Maciej Figas, in the service of a 100% Polish cast and therefore idiomatic, a rare opportunity to appreciate the musicality of this language, served by ensemble singers seasoned away from media pressure. Janucsz Ratajczak, a fine lyric tenor, portrays a tormented Manru, Wioletta Chodowicz a modest and moving Ulana (lullaby in Act II, farewell in Act III), Monika Ledzion a venomous and seductive Aza. A welcome contribution to the rather sparse discography of this opera. (Olivier Gutierrez)