An Unforgettable Union of Opera Greats: When the Charismatic Russian Baritone Dmitri Hvorostovsky and the Mesmerizing German Tenor Jonas Kaufmann Came Together on Stage to Deliver a Heart-Wrenching and Passion-Filled Rendition of the Beloved Neapolitan Classic ‘Core ’ngrato’—Their Voices, Rich with Emotion and Power, Blended in a Performance So Moving, It Transcended Language and Borders, Captivating the Hearts of Audiences Worldwide and Reminding Us Why These Two Icons Are Considered Titans of the Opera World—A Once-in-a-Lifetime Musical Moment That Left Viewers Breathless and Deeply Stirred.

When two of the most powerful voices in opera come together, magic happens. Dmitri Hvorostovsky and Jonas Kaufmann delivered an unforgettable performance of Core ‘ngrato (“Ungrateful Heart”), one of the most emotionally charged and beloved Neapolitan songs ever written.

Listen to the Best of Dmitri Hvorostovsky - The New York Times

A Meeting of Vocal Titans

Hvorostovsky, the legendary Russian baritone, was known for his rich, velvety tone and effortless phrasing, while Kaufmann, the German spinto tenor, brought his signature dramatic intensity and impeccable vocal control to the duet. Their voices blended seamlessly, creating a performance that was both passionate and heartbreaking—just as the song demands.

The Song: A Cry of Heartache

Core ‘ngrato, composed by Salvatore Cardillo in 1911, is a plea of unrequited love, a man pouring out his soul to Caterina, who has abandoned him despite his devotion. The lyrics are a gut-wrenching lament, filled with longing, betrayal, and sorrow—perfectly suited for the power and expressiveness of Hvorostovsky and Kaufmann.

A Performance to Remember

Core 'ngrato - Dmitri Hvorostovsky & Jonas kaufman

With Hvorostovsky’s deep, resonant baritone providing a foundation and Kaufmann’s soaring tenor carrying the emotional weight, their duet became an explosive display of vocal mastery and raw emotion. They didn’t just sing the notes—they lived the heartbreak in every phrase, making the performance deeply moving and unforgettable.

For fans of great operatic duets, this rendition of Core ‘ngrato is a must-watch—an extraordinary meeting of two voices that defined a generation. Would you like a breakdown of their vocal techniques or other iconic performances from these two legends?