This month, Thomas Hampson travels to Russia for two concerts with the Russian National Youth Symphony Orchestra at Tchaikovsky Concert Hall. On November 11, under the baton of Vladimir Jurowski, the program will include Strauss’ Don Quixote and Haydn’s Symphony No. 45. Regarded as one of the most important interpreters of German Romantic song – especially known for his interpretations of the music of Gustav Mahler, Hampson will sing Mahler’s magnificent Rückert Lieder. Check out Mr. Hampson’s famed recording of Mahler’s masterpiece with Leonard Bernstein and the Vienna Philharmonic via his Recordings.

On November 9, Hampson reunites with his son-in-law, bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni, for their fantastic “No Tenors Allowed” program for the first time since the pandemic. At Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, Hampson and Pisaroni will perform beloved arias, operatic scenes, and popular songs with the Russian National Youth Symphony Orchestra, led by Mikhail Tatarnikov. Their praised “No Tenors Allowed” program has garnered critical acclaim with Boston Classical Review hailing: “With their rich, lyrical voices and acting abilities showcased by simple, effective staging, the duo transformed what looked to be a traditional recital into an attractive set of dramatic musical performances. Hampson and Pisaroni make a delightful pair.

Each rose to fame singing lead roles in Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro and Don Giovanni, and Friday’s program offered delectable picks from both. Hampson delivered a bell-toned “Hai già vinta la causa” as an answer to Pisaroni’s darkly projected “Non piú andrai” from Figaro. As Don Giovanni and Leporello, Hampson and Pisaroni respectively brought an amusing sense of rivalry to “Eh via buffone.”

Photo: Lisa Sakulensky