Flis (“The Raftsman”, 1858) was Moniuszko’s next opera following the great success enjoyed by Halka (3/07). For this opera, Moniuszko again chose a deeply Polish subject and setting, using a libretto by Stanisaw Bogusawski. The story takes place in a riverside community on the Vistula. After a tempest – lightly described in the near-10-minute Overture (surely too long, the remaining numbers take barely 45 minutes) – the local populace gives thanks on its survival. Zosia, however, worries over the fate of her beloved, the raftsman of the title, Franek. Her joy at his safe return is cut short by her father’s announcement of her arranged betrothal to Jakub, a hairdresser, somewhat improbably, from Warsaw. In the denouement, Jakub turns out to be Franek’s long-lost brother and, naturally, stands aside to let the lovers be united.

The plot’s deficiencies need not be dwelt on – for instance, Franek does not even hint at a brother until well into the finale – but it served Moniuszko’s purpose sufficiently to concoct a light and engaging stage work, rich in Polish accents and mostly sunny in disposition. Its almost chamber-orchestral scoring is deftly performed by Castle Opera’s Orchestra. The cast as a whole is of a high standard, with Bogusaw Bidzin´ski and Iwona Socha suitably ardent as the lovers. The chorus is in fine voice throughout and Warcisaw Kunc directs with a sure hand. Dux’s recording is full, natural and nicely balanced.