Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Choral

 

The Russian State Symphony Capella is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences around the world for over 90 years. Founded in 1927, the Capella has become one of the most respected and celebrated orchestras in Russia, known for its exceptional musicianship and dedication to preserving the country's rich musical heritage. The Capella was established by the Russian composer and conductor Alexander Sveshnikov, who served as its artistic director for over 40 years. Sveshnikov was a prominent figure in the Russian music scene, having previously served as the director of the Moscow Conservatory and the conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre. He envisioned the Capella as a way to showcase the best of Russian choral music, and he assembled a group of talented singers and musicians to bring his vision to life. Under Sveshnikov's leadership, the Capella quickly gained a reputation for excellence. The ensemble's first major performance was a concert of Russian choral music at the Bolshoi Theatre, which was met with critical acclaim. The Capella went on to perform at major venues throughout Russia and Europe, including the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. One of the Capella's most notable achievements during Sveshnikov's tenure was its performance of Sergei Rachmaninoff's All-Night Vigil, also known as the Vespers. The piece, which is considered one of the greatest works of Russian choral music, had not been performed in its entirety in Russia since the 1917 Revolution. Sveshnikov and the Capella worked tirelessly to prepare for the performance, which took place in 1965 at the Moscow Conservatory. The concert was a resounding success, and it helped to cement the Capella's reputation as one of the foremost interpreters of Russian choral music. After Sveshnikov's death in 1980, the Capella continued to thrive under the leadership of his son, Yuri Sveshnikov. Yuri had been a member of the Capella since its inception, and he shared his father's passion for Russian choral music. He expanded the ensemble's repertoire to include works by contemporary composers, while also maintaining its commitment to preserving the classics. One of the Capella's most memorable performances under Yuri's leadership was its 1991 concert at the Vatican, which was attended by Pope John Paul II. The ensemble performed a program of Russian choral music, including works by Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky, to a rapturous audience. The concert was seen as a symbol of cultural exchange between Russia and the West, and it helped to raise the Capella's profile on the international stage. In addition to its many performances, the Capella has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors over the years. In 1977, the ensemble was awarded the Order of Lenin, the highest civilian honor in the Soviet Union, in recognition of its contributions to Russian culture. The Capella has also been awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labor and the Order of Friendship of Peoples, among other honors. Today, the Russian State Symphony Capella continues to be a leading force in the world of classical music. Under the direction of its current artistic director, Valery Polyansky, the ensemble has continued to expand its repertoire and push the boundaries of Russian choral music.

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