Vitebsk Regional Philharmonic Celebrates 30th Anniversary
– At that time, the artistic staff included tenor Leonid Kozharsky, accompanied by bayan player Alexander Matskevich, and a balalaika octet, which performed here on a part-time basis under contracts. The Philharmonic became the main place of work for this ensemble in 1998, – said Vladimir Barbariko, the artistic director of the Philharmonic.
The installation of an organ by the German firm Glatter - Götz and a Steinway & Sons grand piano in the Philharmonic hall was a very important event. Thanks to this, world-class performers began to come to Vitebsk with concerts. Musicians from more than two dozen countries have already touched these high-class instruments.
For 30 years, the Philharmonic has been hosting the I. Sollertinsky International Music Festival, which promotes contemporary musical art and classics, discovers new names and revives forgotten ones.
Project activities have become a new direction for the institution. Since 2010, author and host Tatyana Savitskaya has been conducting a cycle of concert and educational programs for expectant mothers called "Weaving a Soul from Notes," which is unique in Belarus. As a continuation, there is a cycle of classical music programs for preschoolers and their parents called "Tales of Lyalya the Doll." And since January 1, 2019, benefits for large families have been introduced for concerts from the "Philharmonic for Children" series.
– Currently, the Philharmonic's artistic staff is much larger than it was 30 years ago. We have seven vocal soloists, two instrumental soloists, and three ensembles: the youngest is the symphony orchestra, formed in 2012; the oldest is the "Vitebsk Virtuosos" balalaika octet, created in 1973; and the "Talaka" dance, music, and song ensemble, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. The ensembles and soloists are actively touring both in Belarus and abroad, – said Vladimir Barbariko.
The creative team has prepared three concerts for its anniversary. At the gala concert "Philharmonic - 30", which will take place on May 22 at 19:00, you can enjoy the performance of the symphony orchestra, the "Vitebsk Virtuosos" balalaika octet, and soloists.
On the same day at 22:00, at the "Night in Retro Style" pop music concert, beloved songs of the 80s and 90s will be performed. This is a case where dancing is allowed at the philharmonic.
– Those who turn 30 in May 2019 will be able to attend the night concert for free, but this must be confirmed with documents, – noted Vladimir Babariko.
The "Talaka" ensemble of dance, music, and song has prepared a new program "Big Bazaar" for its 25th anniversary. On May 24 at 19:00, a costumed musical and choreographic extravaganza with live folk songs and instruments awaits the audience. All three concerts will provide unforgettable impressions.