In the Cultural Centre "Mir"

Performance at a height

The Academic Choir "Belcanto" with the head of choir conductor E.P.Khritankova as part of a combined choir from Dubna took part in the First International Choir Competition-Festival "Elbrus Chorophone" in the city of Nalchik.

The soloist of the choir Ekaterina Viktorova shared her impressions of the tour: "The very idea of the festival was very attractive. The city of Nalchik greeted us with soft sunny warmth and the chirping of birds, green meadows and a light breeze, incredible views and hospitable smiling people. There were as many as five choirs at the Festival with participants of different ages and different performance styles. On the first day of the competition, all the groups performed in the Nalchik Concert Hall. On the second day, the Russian anthem was recorded by a combined choir. And on the third day, the most interesting thing was climbing the highest point in Europe - Mount Elbrus and filming the video "Russian Anthem on Elbrus".

Elbrus showed its harsh character and gave us a real test of strength and endurance, caused awe before nature and at the same time amazed with its grandeur, gave peace, made us feel like real heroes and inspired immensely! Having risen to a height of 3500 meters above sea level, to the cable car station "Mir", one hundred and fifty choir singers got into a real snowstorm, the temperature dropped to -20, visibility was zero. Overcoming the cold and dizziness, adults, teenagers and children still sang the Russian anthem under fluttering Russian flags!

As we descended, we looked at skiers and snowboarders. It was forbidden to ski higher that day because of the blizzard. The mountain patrol, the rescue service strictly controlled it. There were cafes at the stations above and below, in one of which we warmed ourselves by a live fire. It simply saved us from the cold. And in the evening, there was a gala concert at the Musical Theater on Maria Square. The singers were able to demonstrate their skills once again, to get well-deserved awards, gratitude and applause."

We heartily congratulate the Academic Choir "Belcanto" on the award - 2nd Degree Diploma of the Winner and we wish them to conquer new creative heights!

Eleonora YAMALEEVA