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Bel Cantanti Opera Celebrates Russian Music in Bethesda Concert
Performers showcase Russian art songs and opera excerpts ahead of upcoming gala performance.
Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:55am
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Bel Cantanti Opera Company presented a concert of Russian classical music at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church in Bethesda, Maryland, featuring a diverse program of art songs and opera excerpts performed by a talented ensemble of vocalists and instrumentalists. The concert served as a preview of the company's upcoming gala performance next month.
Why it matters
The concert provided a rare opportunity for the local DMV audience to experience the rich and emotive Russian classical repertoire, which is not often programmed in the region. The performance showcased the versatility and artistry of Bel Cantanti's ensemble, building anticipation for their upcoming gala event.
The details
The concert opened with a selection of Russian art songs performed by the vocalists, including works by Rachmaninoff, Rubinstein, and Tchaikovsky. The singers, including baritone Rob McGinness, mezzo-soprano Hannah Wardell, bass Christian Isaiah Simmons, and sopranos Nina Mutalifu and Zoya Gramagin, each delivered emotive and technically impressive interpretations. Pianist Katerina Souvorova and cellist Igor Zubkovsky provided sensitive accompaniment. After intermission, the program shifted to excerpts from Russian operas, including works by Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, and Glazunov. Standout performances included Simmons' rendition of Aleko's Cavatina, Wardell's interpretation of Paulina's aria from The Queen of Spades, and Lustgarten's portrayal of Lenski's aria from Eugene Onegin.
- The concert took place on January 23, 2026 in Bethesda, Maryland.
- Bel Cantanti Opera Company's upcoming gala performance is scheduled for next month.
The players
Bel Cantanti Opera Company
A professional opera company based in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, known for its innovative programming and high-quality performances.
Rob McGinness
A baritone and regular performer with Bel Cantanti Opera Company, known for his powerful and expressive voice.
Hannah Wardell
A mezzo-soprano with Bel Cantanti Opera Company, praised for her rich, chocolatey vocal timbre and nuanced interpretations.
Christian Isaiah Simmons
A bass with Bel Cantanti Opera Company, recognized for his youthful and agile vocal quality as well as his compelling stage presence.
Katerina Souvorova
The pianist and music director for Bel Cantanti Opera Company, known for her sensitive and orchestral-like accompaniment.
What they’re saying
“It's rare to see recitals with more than two instruments at play, and here I am pleased to say that it works and made me want to see more programs like it.”
— Maggie Ramsey, Music Critic
“Hearing this piece, I was already excited to hear his operatic repertoire after intermission.”
— Maggie Ramsey, Music Critic
What’s next
Bel Cantanti Opera Company's upcoming gala performance next month is expected to build upon the success of this Russian-themed concert, featuring a wider range of composers and repertoire.
The takeaway
Bel Cantanti Opera Company's concert showcased the company's commitment to bringing rarely heard Russian classical music to the DMV audience, demonstrating the power and artistry of this repertoire and whetting the appetite for their upcoming gala event.
