Discography
Janáček: Jenůfa
Composer Leoš Janáček
Conductor Sir Simon Rattle
Performers Agneta Eichenholz (Jenůfa), Katarina Karnéus (Kostelnička), Aleš Briscein (Laca),
Nicky Spence (Števa), Carole Wilson (Grandmother Buryjovka), Jan Martiník (Foreman / Mayor), Hanna Hipp (Mayor’s Wife), Evelin Novak (Karolka), Claire Barnett-Jones (Barena / Herdswoman), Erika Baikoff (Jano), London Symphony Chorus, Simon Halsey (chorus master), London Symphony Orchestra
Release Date 2 May 2025
LSO0897 | 0822231189725
LSO0897-D | 0822231189763
Producer Andrew Cornall
Engineers Jonathan Stokes and Neil Hutchinson for Classic Sound Ltd
Recorded 11 & 14 January 2024 in the Barbican Hall, London
Janáček: Jenůfa
About
Janáček’s searing, magnificent opera explores a woman’s limited options in a suffocating small town.
Jenůfa is pregnant, but she isn’t married. In her isolated mountain village this means disgrace, or even death. The composer pondered his characters’ predicament for many years. The opera he eventually completed is a blazing vision of human suffering and redemption, rooted in the rhythms of everyday life.
Jenůfa brings together a remarkable cast, including Agneta Eichenholz’s heartbreaking portrayal of a vulnerable young woman and Katarina Karnéus’ achingly powerful Kostelnička. The third in a series of Janáček operas presented by Conductor Emeritus Sir Simon Rattle and the LSO, this next instalment follows the critically acclaimed Katya Kabanova, released in 2024, and The Cunning Little Vixen, released in 2020.
Reviews
Presto Music, Recording of the Week
...in luminous, radiant music, the epilogue is capped by ecstatic horns and trumpets that make for an immensely satisfying conclusion to a recording that is exemplary in every way.'
HRAudio.net
It is no surprise that Rattle’s profound connection with Janáček’s music has resulted in a searing and unforgettable interpretation of this masterpiece, one that the composer’s admirers shouldn’t miss.'
Midlands Music Reviews
Rattle and the LSO's mastery of Janáček’s spiky angular music, and it's ability to flower into moments of intense beauty and hope, are the foundations for a riveting performance.'