This is the first ever recording of Smetana's most popular opera, performed by a team steeped in the tradition of interpreting the work in Prague.
Otakar Ostrcil gives a rhythmically exhilarating, suitably expectant account of the overture, directs the dances with just the right amount of brio tempered by lightness, and gives thoughtful support to his singers. The whole cast is Czech, so the recitative flows with a natural feeling for speech rhythms and accentuation. Nordenova as MaSenka has a sweet, unaffected timbre that's exactly right for her part, and she employs portamento in a way that would not be tolerated today; so much the worse for today. Her Jeník has a plangent tone and intimate delivery nearideal for the role, though some may be surprised at hearing such a light voice in a part now assigned to heavier tenors. The somewhat confined recording has been miraculously restored to obviate most of the drawbacks of the original. At the asking price, anyone interested in the early traditions of interpreting this work will enjoy a welcome bargain.