Historical concert: The Northern Choir celebrated its centenary in St. Petersburg

      The State Academic Northern Russian Folk Choir performed for the first time on the stage of the Big Concert Hall "Oktyabrsky." The concert "Song of the Russian North," dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the ensemble and held with the support of the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives, became a significant cultural event for both the artists and the audience.

      The festive event gathered admirers of the rich heritage, beauty of national art, and uniqueness of Russian northern folklore, allowing everyone present to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient rituals, traditions, and unique musical melodies passed down from generation to generation. The concert program featured folk compositions, vibrant dance numbers, and the opportunity to enjoy performances on folk instruments, creating a lively and rich atmosphere of a true northern celebration.

      The ensemble and veterans of the State Academic Northern Russian Folk Choir were congratulated by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. In his letter, which was read before the concert, Vladimir Vladimirovich noted that the Northern Russian Folk Choir has gone through a long and impressive creative journey. The President also emphasized the professionalism of the ensemble and their dedication to high artistic ideals and values.

      The event was attended by high-profile guests and representatives of the authorities: Deputy Minister - Head of the Department of Culture and Arts of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Arkhangelsk Region, Anna Fofanova; Head of the Arkhangelsk Region Representation in St. Petersburg, Natalia Kadashova; and Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Arkhangelsk Region, Ivan Dementyev. All of them noted the importance of preserving and developing the cultural heritage of the region.

      The anniversary performers were congratulated by artists Valeria Chaika and Chapayev, who wished for future achievements and the continuation of traditions. The concert was hosted by Vladimir Berezin and Ksenia Alferova.

      The program featured not only beloved and well-known compositions but also works from the Northern Choir's new album "Songs of the Northern Dvina," which won a special selection of musical and visual content for children and youth organized by the Presidential Fund for Cultural Initiatives. This award confirms the high quality and significance of the project in popularizing Russia's cultural heritage among the younger generation. Each song from the new album is characterized by its unique character and sound. Folk melodies received authorial arrangements from contemporary Moscow composers and musicians, preserving the authenticity of northern singing, while the skillful combination of authentic sound with modern rhythms gave the songs freshness and relevance. The anniversary evening became not only a recognition of the high level of the choir's performance but also a symbol of the connection between the past and the present, preserving and passing on the rich cultural heritage of the Russian North to a new generation.

      The artistic director of the choir, Svetlana Ignatieva, noted: "For us, 100 years is not just a date, but a reflection on a great journey and a special emotional event. Performing for the first time on the stage of the Big Concert Hall 'Oktyabrsky,' we felt the full power and sincerity of our emotions — it was amazing and very touching. The Northern Choir has always been and remains a guardian of authentic folk tradition: we carefully preserve the northern sound and intonation while finding ways for this music to sound modern. Performing in St. Petersburg in the year of the choir's 100th anniversary is an opportunity to present the culture of the Russian North to a wide audience and convey its depth, beauty, and vibrant sound that will be remembered for a long time. We want to express our immense gratitude to everyone who came, supported, and shared this important celebration with us — your warm reception inspires us for new achievements."

      In addition to the concerts held in St. Petersburg and Moscow, the Northern Choir plans a tour across Russian cities, and the culmination of the anniversary year will be a grand concert at the M.V. Lomonosov Arkhangelsk Drama Theater in December 2026. This tour and final shows will allow an even wider audience to touch the richness and beauty of northern folklore and become part of the celebration of the legendary ensemble's anniversary.