Description

MIKHAIL BOCHAROV (ST. PETERSBURG, 2 NOVEMBER, 1872 – ST. PETERSBURG, 29 APRIL, 1936)

Bocharov graduated from Kiev University as a lawyer before pursuing a career in singing. He studied under Everardi and Petza at the Kiev Music College, from which he graduated in 1898. Bocharov furthered his musical education in Italy, polishing his craft before joining the Kiev Opera from 1901 to 1903. His career flourished as he performed in major Russian cities, including Moscow with the Zimin Opera, St. Petersburg, and Odessa, among others. In recognition of his artistry, he was awarded the honorary title of Meritorious Artist of Russia in 1925.

From 1932, Bocharov focused primarily on concert singing, showcasing his voice, which was noted for its impressive range and cultivated quality. His diverse roles included Escamillo in Carmen, Figaro in The Barber of Seville, Beckmesser in Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Gryaznoi in The Tsar’s Bride, Ivan-Korolevich in Kashchey the Immortal, Kochubey in Mazeppa, as well as iconic roles like Onegin, Demon, and Rigoletto. His voice maintained its strength and brilliance without fatigue, even into his final years. Tragically, Bocharov passed away while singing at the piano, a testament to his lifelong dedication to music.

Chronology of some appearances

1901-1903 Kiev Opera House

1902 Moscow Russian Private Opera

1905 Kiev Opera House

1906 Moscow S. Zimin’s Opera House

1915 Petrograd National House

1916-1923 Sverdlovsk Opera House

TRACKLIST

1. Barbiere di Siviglia (Rossini) Largo al factotum 20266 Metropol
2. Demon (Rubinstein) Do not weep, child 3-22602 2746r G&T Moscow 07
3. Eugen Onegin (Tchaikovsky) Aria X-62631 Zonophone, Moscow 07
4. Faust (Gounod) Dio possente 3-22609 G&T, Moscow 07
5. Pikova Dama (Tchaikovsky) Aria of Prince Yeletsky X-2-62671 Zonophone, Moscow 07
6. Rigoletto (Verdi) Pari siamo X-62638 Zonophone, Moscow 1907
7. Sadko (Rimsky-Korsakov) Song of the Viking guest 3-22606 2756r G&T, Moscow 07
8. Traviata (Verdi) Di Provenza il mar il suol X-62630 2751r Zonophone, Moscow 07